The Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) successfully thwarted multiple suspected terrorist attacks in Lamu County by discovering and safely destroying four improvised explosive devices (IEDs) along crucial supply routes used by both security personnel and civilians.
These operations, conducted under Operation Amani Boni (OAB), involved troops executing route clearance, dominance patrols, and intelligence-led operations. They intercepted the concealed explosives before they could be detonated, showcasing their commitment to safety.
During a routine patrol, soldiers detected the first device—a pressure-plate IED hidden along a major supply route. The troops promptly secured the area, allowing Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) personnel to conduct a controlled detonation, neutralizing the threat without any casualties.
In a subsequent operation just days later, troops on another route clearance patrol in the Sarira area discovered three additional concealed IEDs, strategically positioned approximately 5.1 kilometers, 8.27 kilometers, and 8.4 kilometers apart along key supply routes. EOD specialists acted swiftly, securing the locations and safely destroying all three explosive devices, thereby preventing potential attacks on both security convoys and civilian traffic.
The KDF emphasized that the repeated discovery of IEDs underscores the ongoing reliance of terrorist groups on roadside explosives, particularly after sustained military pressure has significantly diminished their capacity to launch conventional attacks. No arrests were made during these operations.
The military credited the success of these operations to intelligence-led planning, disciplined route clearance procedures, and the vigilance of troops operating in the Boni Forest area. The Commander of Operation Amani Boni reaffirmed that offensive and stabilization operations continue across the region, with forces maintaining control of key areas, securing vital transport corridors, and pursuing those responsible for planting explosives.
These latest recoveries are set to enhance the safety of residents, travelers, and businesses in Lamu County, while reinforcing ongoing efforts to combat terrorism in the coastal region. Lamu remains under Operation Amani Boni, focused on driving out al-Shabaab groups operating in the area.
Historically, parts of Lamu have experienced numerous terrorist attacks targeting both locals and security officers, with the most devastating strike occurring in Mpeketoni and Kibaoni on the night of June 15, 2014, when over 90 lives were lost.
The region is currently under a specialized operation, code-named Operation Linda Boni, aimed at eliminating terrorists from the area. This multi-agency initiative seeks to eradicate al-Shabaab militants from Boni Forest, responding to the tragic loss of more than 100 security agents in Lamu, Garissa, Wajir, and Mandera Counties due to IED attacks in previous years.
