Mandera, Kenya — Kenyan security forces have killed four Al-Shabaab militants and seized a substantial weapons cache near the Somalia border in a significant counter-terrorism operation, security officials have said.
The intelligence-led mission, carried out by a Multi-Agency Security Team in Banisa Sub-County, Mandera, marks another crucial victory in Kenya's ongoing war against terrorism and underscores the country's increasingly sophisticated approach to national security.
The operation resulted in the recovery of a deadly arsenal, including a rocket-propelled grenade (RPG) launcher, four RPG warheads, a PKM machine gun, three AK-47 rifles, seven AK-47 magazines, five pistols, each with a magazine, and five mobile phones.
"This operation demonstrates our unwavering commitment to securing Kenya's borders and neutralizing the Al-Shabaab threat," a senior security official said, speaking on condition of anonymity.
"The weapons seized could have caused significant harm if used in terrorist activities. Our enhanced intelligence capabilities and multi-agency approach are yielding tangible results in our fight against extremism."
Eight additional militants reportedly escaped with injuries, and security forces are actively pursuing them, leveraging advanced tracking techniques and cross-border cooperation.
"We are in hot pursuit and we will catch up with these terrorists. There will be no place for them to hide," the official said.
This latest success is part of a broader, intensified counter-terrorism strategy that Kenya has been implementing in recent years.
The country has significantly ramped up its efforts to combat Al-Shabaab and other extremist groups, both within its borders and in cooperation with regional and international partners.
Kenya's pivotal role in regional security has been further emphasized by the United States' recent initiative to designate it as a major non-NATO Ally (MNNA).
This potential designation, which would make Kenya the first Sub-Saharan African country to receive this status, comes in recognition of Kenya's substantial contributions to counter-terrorism efforts in East Africa.
The strengthened Kenya-US partnership solidified during President William Ruto's recent state visit to Washington, is already bearing fruit.
Kenya is set to receive 150 M1117 armored vehicles from the US by September, significantly enhancing its capability to counter the improvised explosive device (IED) attacks frequently employed by Al-Shabaab.
Additionally, the US has pledged $7 million to modernize and professionalize the National Police Service through advanced training and development programs.
Furthermore, Kenya's counter-terrorism efforts have been bolstered by the establishment of the Joint Terrorism Task Force (JTTF-K) in 2020, with assistance from the FBI and the US Department of State.
This specialized unit has enhanced Kenya's capacity to investigate and prosecute terrorists, leading to increased conviction rates.
The Multi-Agency Security Team, responsible for manning the Kenya-Somalia border, praised Banisa residents for their support during the operation.
This highlights the growing importance of community cooperation in Kenya's counter-terrorism strategy, a key component of the country's comprehensive approach to combating extremism.
Kenya's efforts extend beyond its borders, with its forces playing a crucial role in the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS).
The country's commitment to regional stability is further exemplified by its leadership of the upcoming multinational security support mission to Haiti, showcasing Kenya's growing influence in global peacekeeping efforts.
As part of its modernization drive, Kenya has also commenced upgrading its security equipment, including the purchase of Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected Vehicles for use in counter-terrorism and anti-banditry operations.
These acquisitions, coupled with enhanced training and international cooperation, are significantly boosting Kenya's operational capabilities.
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While this operation marks a significant victory, security experts warn that the threat from Al-Shabaab remains substantial.
The group has shown resilience and adaptability in the face of increased pressure from Kenyan and international forces.
However, Kenya's multi-faceted approach, combining military action with community engagement, de-radicalization programs, and regional cooperation, is showing promising results in diminishing the terrorist threat.
As the situation develops, Kenyan forces continue their pursuit of the escaped militants, reinforcing their commitment to regional security and the ongoing fight against terrorism.
This latest operation serves as a testament to Kenya's determination and growing capability to safeguard its citizens and contribute to global counter-terrorism efforts.
The Star
