Security Forces Disrupt Al-Shabaab Operations in Garissa County

In a successful joint operation, Kenyan security forces today targeted an al-Shabaab base located in the Alango area of Garissa County.

This intelligence-driven raid resulted in the seizure of a significant amount of bomb-making materials, hindering the terror group's ability to construct Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs). While the operation captured an AK-47 rifle, ammunition, supplies, and food stores, three bomb-making experts affiliated with al-Shabaab managed to escape. A pursuit is currently underway to apprehend these individuals and prevent further threats.

This raid comes on the heels of another successful counter-terrorism operation conducted on March 2 in Fafi, Garissa County. Security forces ambushed a group of suspected al-Shabaab militants, resulting in the elimination of five individuals and the arrest of four others. The apprehended militants are cooperating with authorities, providing valuable information during ongoing interrogations.

The team also recovered a significant arsenal, including PKM and RPK machine guns, AK-47 rifles, and additional IED materials. Mobile phones and SIM cards were also confiscated, potentially offering further intelligence on the group's activities. Officials revealed that the Fafi operation targeted a temporary militant camp established by individuals who had infiltrated Kenya from Somalia. This location served as a logistical hub for al-Shabaab, allowing them to launch attacks and retreat back across the border.

Intelligence suggests the terror group has been actively deploying operatives into Kenya in preparation for future assaults. In response, law enforcement has intensified efforts in the region to disrupt these plans and safeguard the nation's security. The recent surge in ambushes perpetrated by al-Shabaab near the Kenya-Somalia border has resulted in casualties among security personnel. The militants exploit this proximity to launch attacks using firearms and explosives, jeopardizing public safety.

The ongoing security operation aims to address this critical border vulnerability and dismantle al-Shabaab's ability to carry out further attacks. These proactive measures have unfortunately necessitated the delay of plans to reopen the Kenya-Somalia border until a more secure environment can be established.