Voter intimidation reported near Somali border

While majority of northeastern Kenya's polling places have opened peacefully, there have been reports of raids and voter intimidation in other localities by al-Shabab Islamist insurgents.

Al-Shabab, known for attacking the area's Garissa University in 2015, could target the area due to its proximity to Somalia's border.

In several bordering areas of Mandera county last night, suspected militants are thought to have targeted villages and settlements.

Communication links to the region have been severed, and it is believed that Arabia town, located around 40 miles (70 km) east of Mandera town, was the target.

Locals along that border region are avoiding media inquiries out of concern for their safety from jihadists and government security professionals who tend to play down militant activity, particularly during an election.

In several areas of Wajir East, another bordering seat, terrorists have reportedly prevented voters from getting to their respected polling places.

Residents of Qarsa village described how militants ordered people to get off of a truck carrying voters and then set it on fire. They spoke to the BBC under the condition of anonymity.

According to them, the militants have been warning the populace not to vote.

Hilary Toroitich, the commander of the Wajir County police, was contacted for comment but did not return calls or texts.

Additionally, there have been reports of events that have caused election officials to postpone sending voting materials to polling places:

Shots were heard coming from the bush in Konton village, which is part of the Wajir East constituency, and were suspected to be fired by al-Shabab fighters.

There have been reports of violence in the Eldas constituency, west of the town of Wajir, where supporters of a parliamentary candidate are allegedly obstructing election officials.

There have been no votes cast in any of the 72 polling places in the Eldas constituency.

Gunshots were also heard last night at the primary tallying center in Eldas town, but the BBC has been unable to corroborate what transpired.