Suspected Al Shabaab attack Mandera, damage power transformer

A communication mast vandalised in a previous attack. [File, Standard]

Suspected Al-Shabaab militants have today morning attacked several areas within Mandera county and damaged power transformers.

The attacks in Libehiya town, Mandera East and Alungu area of Lafey sub-county also left several livestock bleeding due to gunshot wounds.

According to security officials, the militants vandalized the power engine transformer that supplies electricity to the network machine.

In Libehiya, the attackers hit the entrance gate with an RPG and set the transformer ablaze.

According to security sources, the communication mast remains a key target for the attackers as they aim to disrupt the information flow between the authorities and the locals.

"Their aim is always to cause an economic crisis in this region," the source said.

The militants were however repulsed as locals joined hands with the armed Kenya Police Reservists to block any efforts to penetrate into the villages.

"They were about 40 in number. They carried around crude weapons to instigate fear in locals. They most targeted communication facilities like Safaricom mast," one officer said.

Security officers have visited the two scenes to assess the situation and stop any further attacks.

No casualties have been reported so far.