Top KDF officers visit troops in Lamu, assess preparedness

Top commanders on Thursday visited the Kenya Defence Forces troops stationed at Baure Forward Operating Base in Lamu County to assess the operational preparedness, welfare and morale of the troops.

The troops are actively engaged in countering and degrading al-Shabaab terror group activities within the vast Boni Forest. 

Commander 8 Brigade, Brigadier David Chesire together with Operation Amani Boni (OAB) Commander Colonel Joel Tanui, visited the soldiers where Brig Chesire expressed gratitude for their unwavering commitment and sacrifices to serve the nation.

"I urge you to continue the same spirit and dedication throughout your tour of duty. The operation has achieved remarkable success, and I cannot thank you enough for that," he said.

The presence of the FOB and KDF soldiers in the area has enabled the peace-loving locals to embark on their day-to-day activities.

The heightened security has given residents the assurance that the criminal activities of members of the militant group will be deterred.

Brig Chesire told the troops the KDF command is fully committed to supporting them to execute their mandate of protecting and defending the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the country.

He implored the troops to continue embracing the multi-agency approach by working in collaboration with other security agencies deployed in the region and the local communities in the fight against terrorism and violent extremism.

Operation Amani Boni has continued to strengthen security within Coastal areas of Lamu, Tana River, Garissa and Kilifi counties and has significantly enhanced the livelihood of residents as well as suppressing al Shabaab activities.

Just two days ago on September 12, at least four al-Shabaab terror suspects were killed in a dusk raid on a hideout in the Harbole-Fafi area in Garissa County.

Multi-agency teams raided their hideout in an ambush and recovered Improvised Explosive Devices (IED) making materials, medicine and other assorted items.

At least six other suspects managed to escape but with injuries, officials said.

The raid came two days after 14 military personnel were injured on September 10 after their lorry ran over an improvised explosive devise in Baure, Lamu County.

The Kenya Defence Forces lorry was using the Baure-Drum main supply route.

On Wednesday, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki arrived in Lamu County to assess the situation following the spate of terror attacks.