Police on high alert afterAl Shabaab attack in Garissa

Security agencies have heightened patrols and operations in Garissa County following a deadly attack in Hulugho that left a chief and a teacher dead.

In a statement issued on Monday hours after the deadly attack, the National Police Service (NPS) said it is actively responding to the security incident, which occurred in the Hulugho area of Garissa County.

Police said a multi-agency security team is pursuing the perpetrators, adding that the area has since been secured as operations continue to apprehend those responsible.

“The National Police Service is aware of and is actively responding to a security incident that occurred earlier today, Monday, 26th January 2026, in the Hulugho area of Garissa County, in which a chief and a teacher were killed,” the statement read.

“A multi-agency security team is actively pursuing the perpetrators of this cowardly act. The area has been secured, and an operation is ongoing to apprehend those responsible and ensure they face the full force of the law.”

The police acknowledged the anxiety caused by the attack and sought to reassure residents, particularly those in Hulugho, that their safety remains a top priority.

“We strongly wish to reassure the public, particularly in Hulugho, Garissa County, that their safety and security remain our utmost priority,” the statement said, noting that security patrols in the region and its environs have been immediately intensified.

NPS at the same time, reaffirmed their commitment to protect Kenyans and urged members of the public to remain calm and vigilant, and to cooperate with security agencies by sharing any information that may aid investigations.

Area chief Abdifatah Gani and Hulugho Primary School teacher Stephen Musili were killed in an overnight attack in what authorities believe was a terrorist attack carried out by suspected Al Shabaab militants.

According to reports, the attackers first shot dead the chief before setting his vehicle ablaze. The assailants later opened fire on the teacher, killing him outside his house.