Suspected Al Shabaab Abductors Hold Five Chiefs Hostage in Somalia, Demand Sh6 Million for Their Release

Intelligence ReportIntelligence Report

An informal border crossing between Mandera County and Somalia.

Intelligence In-depth has learned that elders leading negotiations informed the families of five abducted chiefs that Al-Shabaab-linked militants are demanding Sh6 million for their release. This comes despite earlier reports claiming the chiefs had been freed on Sunday after two months in captivity.

On Monday, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen addressed the situation, confirming that the five chiefs—alongside the daughter of one administrator—remain in Somalia, where they were taken on February 3. The administrators—Mohamed Adawa, Mohamed Hassan, Abdi Hassan, Mohamed Noor Hache, and assistant chief Ibrahim Gabow—were reportedly en route to Elwak ahead of President William Ruto’s visit to Mandera County when they were seized.

“We have received positive news from Mandera regarding the chiefs’ release, and a detailed statement will be issued once they return to Kenya,” Murkomen said during a security assessment tour in Mombasa.

Preliminary reports suggested the chiefs were handed over to Kenyan mediators on Sunday. A source familiar with the negotiations stated, “No ransom was paid, but the elders were asked to consider an unspecified goodwill gesture.”

However, a relative of one chief disputed the claims, saying the families remain in the dark about their loved ones’ status. Another source confirmed that mediators contacted the families on Sunday, reiterating Al-Shabaab’s Sh6 million demand.

Last Tuesday, Intelligence In-depth reported that the militants had agreed to release the chiefs following prolonged talks with Kenyan and Somali elders. The administrators were believed to be held in Somalia’s Jilbi region.

For nearly two months, local elders worked to negotiate with the militants, who initially demanded a ransom. “We are waiting to see if they will fulfill their promise to free the chiefs after Eid celebrations,” a source disclosed.

Meanwhile, Nominated Senator Mariam Omar has urged the Interior Ministry to provide regular updates on rescue efforts. “The government must prioritize the safe return of these abducted leaders and civilians,” she emphasized.

Authorities say the chiefs will undergo debriefing and questioning upon their return. The situation remains uncertain as families and officials await further developments.