Alarm has engulfed Kenyans after Somalia deployed its soldiers to the common border of Mandera.
The deployment of Somalia National Army comes few hours after Somalia cut diplomatic ties with Kenya.
Somalia recalled its envoys from Kenya and gave Kenyan envoys in Mogadishu seven days to leave.
The move is seen to severe the ties that had begun to be revived recently when Somalia reopened its embassy offices in Kenya after over two decades.
READ ALSO: Somalia reopens its embassy in Nairobi after 26 years
According to Daily Nation, Mandera residents reported they had seen SNA troops strategically taking positions along the two countries’ common border.
“We have woken up to the sight of military officers along the border. This is very worrying,†said resident Ali Abdille was quoted by Daily Nation.
The residents also reported that SNA was placing combat vehicles at Border Point Three.
The move alarmed residents who left their homes in a huff, fearing the worst could happen.
A government agent in Mandera confirmed the development though sught anonymity for he does not enjoy the privilege of commenting on such issues.
“We are aware of the developments on the ground. Definitely the matter will be decided by top offices in Nairobi for a way forward,” the source stated.
In the dawn of Tuesday, December 15, Somalia Minister of Information Osman Dubbe announced that the country had cut diplomatic ties with Kenya.
Somalia under President Farmaajo Mohamed has accused Kenya of interfering in its matters thus compromising their sovereignty.
The move angered Kenyans online who furiously called on the government to withdraw Kenyan soldiers from Somalia.
As this happened, Uhuru held a meeting with Gen. Stephen Townsend, Commander of the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM).
The two discussed the strengthening of military cooperation between Kenyan and American forces, according to State House Kenya tweet.