At least two people have been confirmed dead and more than 30 others seriously wounded, following an attack at Garissa University College by suspected Al-Shabaab militants early today.

Reports from the police indicate that five masked gunmen stormed the university and shot guards at the main gate at about 05:30 local time (02:30 GMT). Police in the area then responded and engaged the gunmen in a fierce exchange.

A security operation, has since then been launched and the military is reported to have surrounded the institution.

The gunmen are said to have fired indiscriminately and there are fears the casualty toll, majority whom are students, could rise.

Unconfirmed reports also indicate that the gunmen have taken hostages.

According to The National Disaster Operations Centre which was coordinating the security operation, security forces had surrounded the university and members of the public were being warned to stay away from the area.

“There are two fatalities, four injuries reported so far. KDF are at the scene. Members of the public urged to stay away from the college,” NDOC said.

NKAISSERY, BOINNET LEAD SECURITY OPERATION IN GARISSA

Interior Cabinet Secretary Joseph Nkaissery and Inspector General of police Joseph Boinnet flew to Garissa shortly after the attack, to help in coordinating the operation targeting to rescue those trapped in the college.

The attack came a week after Britain and Australia issued travel advisories, warning their citizens of imminent terror attacks in Kenya.