Kenya (MNN) — On the morning of February 2, a vehicle in Kenya ran over an explosive device planted by terrorist group Al-Shabab. All four occupants were killed.
The attack took place not far from Somalia, which has been a hotbed for Islamic extremism since the 1980s. Al-Shabab itself was established in 2006.
This is one of ten attacks on Kenyan soil since the year began. Nehemiah with FMI says, “The incident occurred just two days after a 14-seater vehicle, traveling in Mandera County from a place called Arabia, ran over an improvised land mine, killing 13 people and injuring scores of others now admitted in the Mandera hospital.”
In late January, the U.S. and several European embassies warned of terrorist threats in Kenya, urging their citizens to avoid public places.
Targeting Christians
Nehemiah says many attacks target Christians who are traveling across the country for work. “We know of buses being stopped and Christian pulled out and killed while Muslims are let go. FMI partners serve in this Muslim-majority area, the northeast counties of Kenya, where Al-Shabab is very active in terrorism. This is an opportunity for the listeners to pray for FMI partners who are sharing the Word of God in these terrible and difficult conditions.”
Al-Shabab wants to unite large areas of East Africa under one Islamic government, eliminating all other religions. Pray the story of Jesus will change many hearts and bring peace.
Ask God to strengthen Kenyan Christian as they live under the threat of attack or starvation if they are captured. Nehemiah says, “May they be strengthened by their faith in Jesus Christ and our communion with them.”
The header photo shows people grieving after an attack against a Kenya FMI partner’s church in 2021. This attack also occurred in a county bordering Somalia. The attack killed 14 and sent 60 to the hospital. (Photo courtesy of FMI)
