A multi-agency security team conducted a raid on a makeshift al-Shabaab camp in the Digdiga area of Fafi on Wednesday morning, resulting in the deaths of two suspected militants.
The operation, prompted by local complaints about frequent harassment and threats from the terror group, reflects ongoing efforts to improve security in a region often targeted by extremist elements.
The raid was initiated following intelligence reports indicating that al-Shabaab militants were planning an attack on security personnel in the Sub-County.
Police tracked the suspects deep into Digdiga Forest and executed an ambush while the militants were reportedly preparing game meat. During the confrontation, two militants were killed, while others sustained serious injuries and fled the scene.
The operation yielded a substantial cache of weapons and material, including three AK-47 rifles, grenades, radios, indoctrination literature, AAA batteries, animal snares, and jerrycans.
Notably, a total of 120 rounds of ammunition, along with extra magazines for the rifles, were recovered, indicating the level of preparedness of the militants.
This raid is part of an ongoing series of operations targeting al-Shabaab across several northeastern counties, including Mandera and Wajir. Just days prior, on August 5, security forces launched intelligence-led operations targeting suspected al-Shabaab positions in these regions.
In these earlier raids, several hidden items were unearthed, including AK-47 and PKM ammunition, medical supplies, and jerricans filled with water.
Additionally, security teams in Garissa had an encounter with approximately five suspected militants in Adan Santur, who were allegedly harassing locals and confiscating their camels. The operation led to the recovery of two camels, which were returned to their grateful owners.
The recent uptick in security operations comes amid concerns of looming attacks by al-Shabaab after a prolonged calm period. The group, which has long exploited the porous borders between Kenya and Somalia, has been known to plant explosives along routes commonly used by security forces.
Despite the presence of Kenyan troops in Somalia aimed at dismantling al-Shabaab operations, the terror group continues to infiltrate into Kenya to execute attacks, complicating efforts for lasting peace in the region.
As security agencies remain vigilant, the cooperation of local communities will be critical in combating the persistent threat posed by these militants.
The situation underscores the ongoing challenge of ensuring safety in an area that has endured violence from the terror group, persisting despite the absence of a stable government in Somalia since the fall of Siad Barre in 1991.
