KDF Foils Suspected Terror Attacks In Lamu After Destroying Four IEDs
News Updated: 20 July 2026 12:54 EAT
Photo Courtesy:
The Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) has thwarted suspected terrorist attacks in Lamu County after troops detected and safely destroyed four improvised explosive devices (IEDs) planted along key supply routes used by both security personnel and civilians. The discoveries were made during routine route clearance patrols conducted under Operation Amani Boni, the military's ongoing counter-terrorism campaign targeting al-Shabaab militants operating in the Boni Forest and surrounding areas.
According to KDF, the first explosive device was uncovered during a routine patrol when soldiers identified a concealed pressure-plate IED hidden beneath a frequently used transport route. The area was immediately secured before Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) specialists safely neutralised the device through a controlled detonation, preventing what could have been a deadly attack.
In a separate operation conducted days later, troops discovered three more IEDs concealed along another major supply route in the Sarira area of Lamu County. The military said the explosives had been strategically planted at intervals of approximately 5.1 kilometres, 8.27 kilometres and 8.4 kilometres, indicating careful planning intended to target vehicles travelling along the route.
EOD teams responded by securing each location before safely destroying all three explosive devices without causing injuries or damage to nearby infrastructure. The successful operation ensured that the route remained safe for both security convoys and civilian traffic.
KDF said the recovery of the four IEDs highlights the continued threat posed by terrorist groups despite sustained security operations in the region. The military noted that militants have increasingly relied on roadside bombs after facing sustained pressure from security forces, making route clearance patrols a critical component of counter-terrorism efforts.
The operation was carried out under Operation Amani Boni, a multi-agency security campaign launched to eliminate al-Shabaab militants from the Boni Forest, which stretches across parts of Lamu, Garissa and Tana River counties. The operation combines military patrols, intelligence gathering and coordinated security operations aimed at restoring stability in the region.
Lamu remains one of Kenya's most vulnerable counties to terrorist activity because of its proximity to the Somalia border and the presence of dense forest that militants have previously used as hideouts. Over the years, al-Shabaab has repeatedly targeted security personnel and civilians through roadside bombs, ambushes and attacks on public infrastructure.
Roadside IEDs remain among the deadliest weapons used by militants in the coastal region because they can be hidden beneath roads or vegetation and detonated remotely or through pressure triggers. Such devices have previously caused fatalities among security officers while disrupting transport and commercial activities.
The latest recovery comes amid continued security operations aimed at preventing terrorist infiltration and protecting critical transport corridors linking remote parts of Lamu County. These supply routes are essential for military logistics, humanitarian access and the movement of local residents.
KDF attributed the successful operation to intelligence-led planning, disciplined route clearance procedures and the vigilance of troops deployed on patrol. The military said regular surveillance and patrols remain essential in detecting hidden explosive devices before they can be used against unsuspecting road users.
No casualties or arrests were reported following the operation, but security agencies have maintained heightened surveillance across the affected areas to detect any additional threats and prevent further attempts to plant explosive devices.
Tags: Edit Editor's Pick Editors choice Kdf Signs Signs Media Kenya Limited Signsmedia Signstv Signstvkenya
Share this article
FELIX MAKONA
FACT FINDER AND DATA DRIVEN JOURNALIST. DATA MINING AT IT'S BEST. GET FACTS RANGING FROM MATTERS DISABILITY AND INCLUSION, POLITICS, ECONOMY, SPORTS AND GENERAL NEWS AROUND THE WORLD