US, Britain condemn Mandera quarry massacre

CYRUS OMBATI

Kenya: The US and Britain have condemned Tuesday’s attack on a quarry in Mandera County by Al-Shabaab militants that left 36 miners dead.

They also condemned the attack on a bar in Wajir County by gunmen on Monday night that left one person dead and 13 wounded

The US’ National Security Council spokesperson Bernadette Meehan said they will continue to support Kenya and other regional partners in combating terrorism and violent extremism and protecting human rights.

“The United States strongly condemns attacks in Wajir and Mandera counties in Kenya as well other recent attacks by the terrorist group al-Shabaab, targeting innocent civilians,” she said in a statement on White House website. 

US ambassador to Kenya, Robert Godec, termed as horrific the attacks.

“To end the threat of violent extremism, we must remain united and continue to work together.  The United States stands with Kenya in the fight against terrorism,” said Godec.

The UK’s Minister for Africa, Mr James Duddridge said he was appalled by the attacks in the area as he sent his condolences to the families and loved ones of those who died.

“There is no place for such senseless acts of violence in our societies. The UK continues to stand by the Kenyan government both in the fight against terrorism and in its efforts to bring to justice those responsible for these barbaric acts, in accordance with international law”.

The attackers separated Muslims from non-Muslims and shot the Christians dead, residents and police said. They shot dead 34 and beheaded two.

The victims were lined-up, and shot in the head, at close range. Others were shot in the legs after they allegedly tried to escape from the attackers.

Witnesses said the victims were caught after midnight, while sleeping in their tents at the quarry.