Garissa University College in Kenya attacked by gunmen-photos
Unknown gunmen posing as worshippers attacked the institution early Thursday morning. Inspector General of Police Joseph Boinnet confirmed the attack and said efforts to restore the situation were ongoing. “Garissa University was attacked early this morning. Elite units from Police and KDF have responded. Updates to follow,” said Boinnet on his Twitter handle. Boinnet said in a statement the gunmen forced their way into the university by shooting at the guards manning the main gate at around 5.30a.m
“The attackers shot indiscriminately while inside the university compound. Police officers who were at the time guarding the students’ hostels heard the gunshots and responded swiftly and engaged the gunmen in a fierce shootout. However, the attackers retreated and gained entry into the hostels,” he said.
He added that officers were summoned for reinforcement immediately and a joint force composed of the police and military started engaging the gang. Witnesses say the gunmen went into the university as students were going for morning prayers. Those calling from inside the university say there are many casualties.
Students who escaped the attack said there were at least five gunmen. Many other students and teachers were by 8 am still being held hostage. According to local security bosses, there has been terror threats on institutions in the area from unknown group. “We had the threats earlier on and alerted the institutions in this area,” said a security official who asked not to be named. In Nairobi, security officials were put on alert over fears of a similar attack. Security bosses were mobilized for a crisis meeting to monitor the situation.
“The attackers shot indiscriminately while inside the university compound. Police officers who were at the time guarding the students’ hostels heard the gunshots and responded swiftly and engaged the gunmen in a fierce shootout. However, the attackers retreated and gained entry into the hostels,” he said.
He added that officers were summoned for reinforcement immediately and a joint force composed of the police and military started engaging the gang. Witnesses say the gunmen went into the university as students were going for morning prayers. Those calling from inside the university say there are many casualties.
Students who escaped the attack said there were at least five gunmen. Many other students and teachers were by 8 am still being held hostage. According to local security bosses, there has been terror threats on institutions in the area from unknown group. “We had the threats earlier on and alerted the institutions in this area,” said a security official who asked not to be named. In Nairobi, security officials were put on alert over fears of a similar attack. Security bosses were mobilized for a crisis meeting to monitor the situation.
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