Five chiefs who were abducted by suspected Al-Shabaab militants in Mandera County have been released. The officials were traveling from Wargadud to Elwak town when they were captured on February 3, 2025.

They were freed from captivity in Jilb, Somalia, on Sunday, April 6, 2025, following a series of coordinated efforts by local security teams and government authorities.

The abduction had raised significant concern and led to a national outcry, with President William Ruto assuring the public that every effort would be made to ensure the chiefs’ safe return. The successful release has been welcomed by their families and the Mandera community, who had been anxiously waiting for their safe return.