Kenya closed its border with Somalia after an armed clash killed a police officer and wounded another in Mandera on Friday.
Kenyan authorities claim Somali security forces ambushed their police at the border town.
About 20 gunmen carried out the attack, reportedly killing Constable Dennis Omari and injuring Wright Mokua.
The attackers seized two rifles, a G3 and an AK-47, before retreating.
Kenyan police say the attack was revenge for two Somali suspects arrested over a failed kidnapping plot.
One suspect’s brother allegedly led the attack to pressure Kenya into releasing the detainees.
Mandera’s Criminal Investigations Chief, Pius Gitari, condemned the assault as a breach of Kenya’s sovereignty.
“They tried to kidnap our officers but met armed resistance,” Gitari said.
She said Somali security operatives had repeatedly visited Mandera police station before the attack.
They pressured authorities to free the two detained men.
She said Kenyan police, fearing security risks, transferred the suspects to Nairobi before the attack.
After the ambush, Kenya asked Somali authorities in Bula Hawo to return the stolen weapons.
The recovered G3 rifle was handed back Friday night, but the AK-47 remains missing.
Kenyan officials say communication with Somali authorities is difficult due to rival administrations in Bula Hawo.
Jubaland regional state forces control one part, while Somalia’s national army controls another.
Kenyan police also arrested a local leader for issuing fraudulent Kenyan IDs to the suspects.
The attack comes amid rising terror threats in Mandera.
Local businesses say they’ve been ordered to close for security reasons.
Residents fear more cross-border violence as tensions continue to escalate.
