Village headman killed, locals blame Somali's Al-Shabaab

The Mbuwani assistant village headman has been gunned down in unclear circumstances.

Rashid Ali Mwaenzi, famously known as Gondiko, was killed at around 4am Monday morning on his way home from a funeral.

Mr Mwaenzi, thought to be about 65 years old, had been shot in the ribs five months ago but survived.

The deceased, who was taken to the Msambweni Referral Hospital mortuary, was buried at his home yesterday.

Kwale County Commissioner Evans Achoki confirmed the murder but said the issue was "too sensitive to give further details".

He, however, said police were investigating.

Speculation among residents is that Gondiko may have been murdered by "Al-Shabaab returnees".

"This is not the first time village elders have been shot at. These returnees brand you a police informer then you are killed," said one leader who sought anonymity.