Tensions are high along the Kenya-Mandera border as the Kenyan military maintains patrols along the perimeter wall erected to enhance security. Recent events have further strained relations, following the admission of a terror suspect, Isaq Cabdi, also known as Issack Mohamed, that officers from Somalia’s National Intelligence Service Agency (Nisa) attacked Kenyan Police Reservists.

The incident, which occurred on March 14, 2025, resulted in the death of one officer, Dennis Omari, and left another, Wright Mokua, seriously injured. The Nisa officers reportedly aimed to rescue Cabdi. During the attack, the assailants seized a G3 rifle, an AK47 firearm, and 90 rounds of ammunition, all of which were later returned.

Mandera County Criminal Investigations Officer Pius Gitari revealed that Nisa officers had made multiple visits to Kenya seeking Cabdi’s release following his arrest. The attack, Gitari stated, was an attempt to abduct a Kenyan police officer to force negotiations with the Kenyan government for Cabdi’s freedom.

Appearing before Kahawa Law Court Magistrate Gideon Kiage, Cabdi pleaded guilty to procuring a Kenyan ID and being illegally present in the country. He faces additional terror charges. Cabdi requested to be released on bond and repatriated to Somalia.

In an unexpected turn, Cabdi defended the Nisa officers, claiming they were led by his brother and were “good people.” He suggested they could act as his surety if the court granted him bond, stating, “If given a phone, I can call and ask them to come to court. I have their contacts.”

Cabdi is charged alongside Yusuf Malim, the Bulla Pawa Sub-Location Assistant Chief, and Noor Yakub. All three are accused of being members of the Al-Shabaab terror group and planning a terrorist act. Police investigations suggest that Cabdi entered Kenya under the direction of an individual named Ahmed, based in Somalia, to carry out a terrorist attack.

According to an affidavit by Police Sergeant Kennedy Karanja, Yakub and Malim allegedly planned to abduct Chinese nationals working for Sinohydro Corporation Limited at a sewerage construction site in Mandera County. Karanja stated that Malim assisted Cabdi in obtaining a Kenyan identification card to facilitate these plans.

The Officer of the Director of Public Prosecutions, Duncan Ondimu, has urged Magistrate Kiage to deny bail to the accused, citing the serious nature of the charges and the risk of witness interference. Ondimu emphasized that Malim's position as an assistant chief could allow him to influence the investigation.