The Kenya Defense Forces (KDF) have foiled several terrorist plots in Lamu County, safely neutralizing four improvised explosive devices (IEDs) planted along Major Supply Routes (MSRs).
According to the KDF, the successful operations were conducted as part of Operation Amani Boni (OAB).
On July 20, the defense force reported clearing IEDs in Lamu, with the first device discovered during a dominance, route clearance, and link-up patrol.
Following the patrol by the officers, the troops identified a concealed pressure-plate IED before it was activated, securing the area immediately and safely destroying the explosive.
“In a series of successful operations, KDF troops thwarted multiple terrorist plots after discovering and safely neutralizing four concealed Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) along Major Supply Routes (MSRs), along critical corridors used by both security forces and local communities in the area of responsibility,” KDF reported.
Also Read: Ex-KDF Soldier Peter Mugure Addresses Court After Being Sentenced for Killing Wife, Two Children
KDF IEDs Neutralization Operations
In a separate operation, KDF personnel on routine route clearance and dominance patrols uncovered three additional concealed IEDs along the MSRs in the Sarira area.
According to reports from the officers on the scene, the devices were located approximately 5.1, 8.27, and 8.4 kilometers apart.
Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) specialists were deployed to the sites, where they secured the locations and safely disposed of the explosives without causing casualties or damage.
According to the Commander of Operation Amani Boni, offensive and stabilization operations remain ongoing across the area of responsibility.
Operation Amani Boni (OAB)
Operation Amani Boni (OAB) is Kenya’s principal counter-terrorism and stabilization operation in Lamu County and the Boni Forest region.
The operation was launched in September 2015, during former President Uhuru Kenyatta’s administration, after Al-Shabaab attacks in Lamu, including the 2014 Mpeketoni attack that killed more than 90 people.
Before the operation was named OAB, it was initially known as Operation Linda Boni.
According to the KDF, the military and multi-agency mission was established to combat Al-Shabaab militants and other armed criminal groups operating within the Boni Forest and along the Kenya-Somalia border.
Although led by the Kenya Defense Forces, the OAB functions as a multi-agency security framework that involves several government institutions.
Also Read: Mysterious Biting Attacker Sparks Fear in Ruiru as Police Launch Hunt
Among the government institutions working with the KDF under the OAB operation in Lamu are the National Police Service, the Kenya Coast Guard Service, the Kenya Wildlife Service, the Kenya Forest Service, and local administrative authorities.
Through the establishment of the Operation Amani Boni, the troops have been tasked with eliminating terrorists within the Boni Forest and the surrounding areas.
In addition, under the OAB operation, the troops ensure that the roads, villages, and critical transport corridors are secured and safe.
OAB military personnel further prevent cross-border infiltration, protecting civilians and strategic infrastructure in the Lamu area of deployment and surrounding regions, thereby helping create and maintain economic stability and peace.
Operations carried out by the OAB include intelligence-led patrols, route clearance and counter-IED missions.
The troops are also responsible for offensive operations against terrorist cells and border and maritime security patrols.
In addition to the patrols, the OAB also maintains community stabilization and security support activities in Lamu.
Follow our WhatsApp Channel and X Account for real-time news updates.
