Editor's Review

The bank however assured Kenyans that its employees were all safe following the attack.

Equity Bank has issued a statement to its customers following an explosion near its branch.

In a statement issued on Monday, April 29, the financial institution noted that an explosion was reported in Elwak Town, Mandera County.

Following the explosion, Equity Bank noted that the Elwak Branch will remain closed to allow investigative agencies to get to the bottom of the security incident.

The bank however assured Kenyans that its employees were all safe following the attack.

File image of the yellow tape at a crime scene. PHOTO | COURTESY

"Dear Esteemed Members, We regret to inform you, that our Elwak Branch, Mandera County will remain closed today following an explosion in Elwak Town. We confirm that our branch and the staff in Elwak are safe," the statement read in part.

However, the financial institutions advised customers to continue accessing through the available online channels.

"As we wait for the security agencies to advise on when operations can resume, we apologise for the inconvenience caused. Thank you for your understanding."

Preliminary reports indicated that the Improvised Explosive Device (IED) was planted in the town's Central Business District just near the Administrative Police (AP) post. 

The explosion triggered tension in the town compelling other business owners to shut down their premises.

By the time of this publication, the national police service had not given a full account of the suspected terrorist attack in Elwak.