KDF Kills Five Al Shabaab Militants in Boni Forest Operation

Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) have killed at least five Al Shabaab militants in a fierce operation inside the Boni Forest in Lamu County. The offensive, which took place in Lacta Mangai, was intelligence-led and aimed at flushing out terrorist cells that continue to destabilize the region.

Soldiers recovered deadly weapons, including AK-47 rifles and rocket-propelled grenade launchers, along with equipment used for making improvised explosive devices.

The mission is part of the multi-agency Operation Amani Boni, which seeks to restore lasting peace and security in the volatile area.

The killing of five Al Shabaab militants in Boni Forest underscores KDF’s determination to restore peace in Northern Kenya. By seizing weapons and disrupting terrorist hideouts, security forces have struck a significant blow against extremists who continue to destabilize the region. [Photo: Courtesy]

Security Forces Intensify Crackdown on Al Shabaab in Boni Forest

KDF confirmed that the militants were killed during an intense patrol, while others fled with injuries. Soldiers seized several operational items, including rifles, grenades, ammunition, solar panels, tents, and bomb-making materials.

The military said these recoveries would significantly weaken Al Shabaab’s capacity to regroup within Boni Forest. According to KDF, the equipment indicated that the militants were preparing for large-scale attacks on security forces and nearby villages.

The operation is part of the wider Operation Amani Boni (OAB), a multi-agency initiative targeting extremist hideouts across Lamu and Tana River counties. KDF stressed that the campaign will continue until all terrorist cells are eliminated.

KDF officers urged the public to remain alert and report any suspicious activity, promising full commitment to securing the region. “Together, we will exterminate terrorism and ensure a peaceful Boni,” the officers told the press.

Recent Attacks Highlight Persistent Al Shabaab in Boni Forest

The latest raid comes barely a month after Al Shabaab militants attacked Basuba village, deep inside Boni Forest.

Witnesses said the armed group stormed the village, firing at residents and later engaging General Service Unit (GSU) officers at a nearby camp. The assault, which began at night, lasted more than an hour and left residents in fear.

During the attack, the terrorists fired four rocket-propelled grenades targeting both the camp and the village. Despite the heavy firepower, no deaths or injuries were reported. Security officers managed to repel the attackers and forced them to retreat.

This attack highlighted the militants’ continued presence in Boni Forest and their determination to disrupt peace in Lamu County.

Operation Amani Boni Aims to Secure Northern Kenya

The government launched Operation Amani Boni in 2015 to root out Al Shabaab militants hiding in the vast Boni Forest. The dense forest, which stretches across Lamu and Tana River counties, has long been a safe haven for extremists crossing from Somalia.

Since the operation began, security agencies have conducted frequent patrols, aerial surveillance, and ground raids to dismantle Al Shabaab networks. The latest success by KDF is seen as a major step forward in weakening the group’s operational capacity.

KDF officers stressed that restoring peace in Boni Forest is crucial for local families who have endured years of fear and displacement. Many villagers have fled repeated attacks, while others continue to live under constant threat of violence.

The military assured Kenyans that the war against terrorism will not stop until every militant cell is destroyed. They also called on communities to support ongoing efforts by sharing intelligence that could help neutralize the threat.

Final Word

The killing of five Al Shabaab militants in Boni Forest underscores KDF’s determination to restore peace in Northern Kenya. By seizing weapons and disrupting terrorist hideouts, security forces have struck a significant blow against extremists who continue to destabilize the region.

Yet the fight is far from over. Al Shabaab remains a persistent danger in Boni Forest, and only consistent military pressure, public vigilance, and community cooperation will secure lasting peace for families in Lamu and beyond.