MANDERA, Kenya – A Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) soldier was killed on Monday after an improvised explosive device (IED) detonated in Elwak, Mandera County, in what officials fear signals a resurgence of al-Shabaab activity in the region.
The explosion, which occurred near Lafey Junction, also left four soldiers with serious injuries, while a military vehicle was badly damaged.
According to security officials, the attack was part of a reinforced ambush targeting a joint patrol of KDF and the Special Operations Group.
The ambush took place in Qura-Qura, about 15 kilometers from Elwak, and resulted in additional casualties, with at least ten personnel sustaining minor injuries.
The incident marks the second IED attack in the area within 24 hours.
On Sunday, another security vehicle hit an explosive device, though no injuries were reported.
Escalation of Attacks
The area near the Kenya-Somalia border has long been a hotspot for al-Shabaab activity, with the militant group frequently targeting security forces using IEDs and ambush tactics.
Security officials believe the recent attacks suggest the group is reestablishing its presence in the region after a period of relative calm.
In response, Kenyan security agencies have intensified operations in the area to track down those responsible for planting the explosives and prevent further incidents.
Recent Arrests and Ongoing Kidnappings
The attack comes just days after police in Mandera East arrested two suspected al-Shabaab operatives on February 18.
Authorities say the suspects were plotting to abduct a group of foreign workers involved in a local construction project.
One of the suspects had reportedly infiltrated Kenya from El-Ade, Somalia, and was in the process of forging documents to pass as a Kenyan national.
Meanwhile, negotiations are ongoing for the release of six people, including five chiefs, who were kidnapped in Elwak and are currently being held by al-Shabaab militants in Jilib, Somalia. The abductors have reportedly demanded ransom for their release.
