At least five Al Shabaab militants have been killed by Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) officers during an operation inside the Boni Forest in Lamu County.
Addressing the press on Tuesday, August 26, KDF officers revealed that the terrorists were killed while others sustained injuries during an intelligence-led patrol in Lacta Mangai within the expansive Boni Forest.
The operation also resulted in the recovery of al-Shabaab's significant operational items, including AK-47 rifles and Rocket Propelled Grenade (RPG) launchers with warheads.
During the operation, the military personnel also recovered several ammunition, solar panels, tents, and various materials used for making improvised explosive devices (IEDs).
The milestone is part of the Operation Amani Boni(OAB), which is a multi-agency operation within the Boni forest and the wider Lamu and Tana River counties aimed at dismantling the terrorists.
KDF further expressed its commitment to restoring lasting peace and security in the Boni region, ensuring that families can live without fear.
While commenting on the achievement, the military officers called on Kenyans to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities. "Together, we will exterminate terrorism and ensure a peaceful Boni," KDF noted.
Meanwhile, the latest development comes hardly a month after suspected Al Shabaab militants reportedly raided Basuba village, which is located within the Boni Forest in Lamu County.
The heavily armed militants invaded the village and opened fire indiscriminately, going after the residents in their homes before attacking a nearby General Service Unit (GSU) camp.
According to witnesses, the terrorists launched the attack on Friday, July 25, at around 9 pm, sparking fear among the residents who were unable to reach out for help.
Moments later, there was a fierce exchange of fire between the officers and the militants within the camp. The exchange lasted for about an hour, during which time the officers managed to repel the terrorists.
During the fight, the militants reportedly fired four rocket-propelled grenades towards the GSU camp and the nearby village. However, there have been no reports of injuries or deaths so far.
