Members of Parliament (MPs) Ali Wario Shaka of Garsen and Hiribae Saidi, who went missing during a food distribution mission in Tana River have been rescued.
In a statement on November 3, the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) noted that together with the other passengers, they were able to navigate their boat safely to the shore.
Also, ODM noted that the MPs were in the company of other legislators including members of the county assembly.
“We are pleased to announce that our MPs Ali Wario Shaka of Garsen, his Galole counterpart Hiribae Saidi and Posta and Nominated MCA Mama Aodho Omara and other passengers on the boat that went missing last night have been rescued and are safe and sound,” the statement read in part.
Also Read: Govt Issues Update on MPs Stranded in Floods Overnight
ODM Explains How MPs got Stranded in Tana River
Further explaining the events, the political party stated that the boat the legislators were using was unable to navigate through Manzini area and got stuck.
However, with the help of Tana River governor Dhadho Godhana and the incorporation of technology, rescue team were able to successfully locate the boat.
Also, the statement noted that the agencies used other traditional methods including smoke and ringing of church bells to locate the victims.
“The boat carrying the ODM MPS and other passengers ferrying relief food to the people affected by floods in Tana River was unable navigate through to Mnazini and got stuck around Wema area.
“With the help of phone technology (GPRS) and other traditional ways like smoke and ringing of Church bell, they were able to be located and sailed safely to Garsen in the wee hours of the night,” the statement added.
Also Read: Two KRA Officials Swept by Floods
Kindiki on Missing Boat
Earlier, Interior Cabinet Secretary (CS) Kithure Kindiki issued a statement confirming that two Members of Parliament, Ali Wario Guyo of Garsen and Hiribae Said of Buya, among 16 other individuals had gone missing.
According to CS Kindiki, the government established contact with the missing individuals and learnt that they were stranded in Tana River adding that they were safe.
“Security agencies have established contact with a passenger in the boat that went missing earlier this evening in the waters of Tana River.
“All the eighteen passengers and crew are so far safe but are stranded at a yet to be established location,” Kindiki stated.
However, he indicated that a multi-agency team was working overnight to find and rescue them.
“A multi-agency search and rescue mission spearheaded by the Kenya Coast Guard is underway overnight,” noted Kindiki.
