Tension high in Moyale after abduction of South Korean missionaries

David Lee, a South Korean missionary abducted with his mother-in-law in Moyale. [Abraham Fayo, Standard]

Tension is high in Moyale, Marsabit County, following the abduction of two South Korean missionaries from their home in Odda.

The victims, David Lee and his mother-in-law, Hiwi Sokk Cheon, were seized by armed assailants at approximately 9 p.m.

On Monday. Marsabit County Commissioner James Kamau confirmed the kidnapping in a press conference on Tuesday, August 13, 202.

According to Kamau, the missionaries were attacked at their residence within the Odda Mission Church (OMC) Secondary School compound.

The assailants, armed with rifles, forcibly entered the home. The identities of the attackers remain unknown.

David Lee and Hiwi Sokk Cheon, who were actively involved in missionary work in the region, were reportedly engaged in community outreach programmes when the attack occurred.

Eyewitnesses described a chaotic scene as the assailants took the victims.

The missionaries were known for their contributions to local development and humanitarian efforts.

National security teams have launched a comprehensive search operation to locate and secure the release of the kidnapped missionaries.

The operation includes ground patrols, aerial surveillance and intelligence gathering.

In a statement, Commissioner Kamau condemned the violence and reassured the public that resources are being mobilised to ensure the safe return of David Lee and Hiwi Sokk Cheon.

'Our primary focus is on the safe recovery of the hostages. We are working tirelessly to apprehend those responsible for this heinous act and to prevent any further incidents," said Kamau.

Residents have expressed concern about the impact of the abduction on the community, noting the important role of the missionaries in providing aid and support.

David Lee is also the son of the late Woncheol Lee, who was buried in Moyale last year.

The South Korean embassy has been notified, and diplomatic channels are being utilised to coordinate with Kenyan authorities.

The embassy has not yet commented on specific actions being taken but has expressed its commitment to working closely with local officials to resolve the situation.