Katambo Ngala: The hero Soldier who Died Protecting Cuban Doctors

Kenyans were woken up on Friday morning with the sad news that Somali based terror group Al Shabaab had reared their ugly face again.

This time, the terrorists struck the North Eastern town of Mandera, where they abducted two Cuban doctors based in the county.

“Today morning in Mandera town at around 9.00 am, two Cuban doctors left their residence to Mandera Hospital in a County Government vehicle under the escort of two police officers from @APSKenya and @PoliceKE. Along the way, they were blocked by two Toyota Probox cars.” Reads a statement from the National Police.

Unfortunately, the APS officer was shot at and fatally wounded. The criminals commandeered the car and occupants across the border to Somalia. So far, the County Government vehicle has been recovered and the driver is being held for interrogation. 2/3

— National Police Service-Kenya (@NPSOfficial_KE) April 12, 2019

The Two Cubans have been identified as Dr Assel Herera Correa, a General Physician and Dr Landy Rodriguez, Surgeon.

But some Kenyans have wondered why the conversation has centered on the abducted doctors while no one is talking about the Police officer who was killed protecting them.

A family is also mourning their son who was a body guard to the #Cuba #doctors. Let's not forget that. I hope that our colleagues are found safe and alive. #Mandera

— Mellany Murgor (@m_chemu) April 12, 2019

Even though the police have not revealed the identity of the police officer, our sources have now identified the bodyguard as Katambo Ngala.

RIP Katambo Ngala…
When will all this End? #mandera pic.twitter.com/eREXuwhv7c

— Mwenda+ (@Felix_Mwe) April 12, 2019

Very little is known about Mr. Katambo but according to his Facebook page, he comes from Mombasa and went to Kwale High School.

Our prayers are with his family during this trying moment.