Somalia-based militia group Al-Shabaab launched a deadly attack on members of the Special Operations Group (SOG) on patrol in Guba, near the Banisa/Derkale border in West Mandera County.
The attack occurred at approximately 1745 hours, resulting in the deaths of five SOG officers and injuries to six others, according to a police incident report dated July 12, 2024.
The report confirms that, in addition to the fatalities, three SOG officers and three National Police Reservists (NPR) officers sustained injuries.
The wounded officers have been transported to a nearby medical facility where they are receiving treatment. The conditions of the injured officers have not yet been disclosed.
The attackers, believed to be members of the Somalia-based militant group Al-Shabaab, ambushed the patrol unit on Friday in a surprise attack, utilizing small arms and improvised explosive devices.
The assault marks the first incident of insecurity in the region in several months, breaking a period of relative calm.
The Police Incident Report further noted that following the immediate aftermath of the attack, five SOG officers were reported missing.
A search and rescue operation is currently underway, with additional security personnel deployed to the area to locate the missing officers and secure the region.
The attack shows the persistent threat posed by Al-Shabaab in the border regions of Kenya and Somalia.
The terror group has a history of conducting cross-border raids, targeting security forces, and instilling fear among local populations.
Despite increased security measures and coordinated efforts by Kenyan and Somali forces to curb the group’s activities, the militants continue to exploit the porous border to launch attacks.
Mandera County Senator Ali Roba condemned the attack and expressed his condolences to the families of the fallen officers.
“This is a tragic loss for our community and our country,” he said. “We stand united against these cowardly acts of terror and remain committed to ensuring the safety and security of our people.”
National security agencies have intensified their efforts to track down the perpetrators and prevent and bring them to justice.
The government has reiterated its resolve to combat terrorism and strengthen security along the border regions.
Kassim Kenyan, a resident of the constituency said cooperation between security forces and local communities is crucial in addressing the threat posed by militant groups and maintaining peace in the region.
He said the sad incident highlights the ongoing challenges faced by Kenyan security forces in dealing with cross-border terrorism
Mr. Kassim recommended the need for sustained efforts to ensure the safety and stability of border communities.
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