Three people were shot dead yesterday morning in Ukunda, Kwale County, by suspected members of Al Shabaab.

Police said Juma Mwanyota, the village chairperson, Hassan Mwasanite, a sports official, and Mohammed Mwanguze were killed in their homes in Bongwe village at around 2.30am.

According to Kwale County Commissioner Kutswa Olaka, police believe they were killed by Al Shabaab returnees unhappy with police swoops in the area.

The killings came barely two weeks after a returnee, who surrendered to the Government, was also shot dead in the same area.

Police also linked Subira Sudi Mwangole's murder by a gang of 10 men to a group of Al Shabaab returnees or recruiters keen to eliminate any of their members who have surrendered to the Government.

Yesterday's killings sparked fears among local residents but the County Commissioner vowed that police would continue with the swoops to rid of the area of bad elements.

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"We are aware that Bongwe, Shamu, Mwamanga and Chigoti are all homes of the Al Shabaab returnees and the villagers are all living in fear. We assure you that we will get hold of them all," said Mr Olaka.

He said that recent swoops by the police had nabbed several youths.

"The public should co-operate and reveal the culprits who are causing tension in this village because I am 100 per cent sure that you know them," Olaka said.