GARISSA, Kenya — Police officers engaged suspected Al-Shabaab militants in a fierce gun battle after raiding a terror hideout in Qanjara Durow, Garissa County.
In a statement issued on Friday, the National Police Service said a multi-agency security team launched the operation following intelligence reports indicating the presence of militants in the area.
Security officers first established a position near Gel Qad Junction before advancing toward the suspected camp in Qanjara Durow.
During the operation, the officers came under heavy fire from the suspected militants, triggering an intense exchange of gunfire.
“During the operation, security personnel established a presence near Gel Qad Junction before advancing towards Qanjara Durow, where they encountered suspected militants and engaged in a fierce exchange of fire,” the statement said.
Police said the officers overpowered the militants, secured the area, and dismantled the camp after neutralising more suspects found at the hideout.
Authorities also recovered several items believed to have been used in militant operations.
According to the police, the recovered materials included communication gadgets, improvised explosive device (IED) materials, uniforms, ammunition, food supplies, and other logistical equipment linked to extremist activities.
The items were later transported to a secure location for further forensic examination and investigations.
The National Police Service reaffirmed its commitment to combating terrorism and protecting communities from extremist threats, especially in counties bordering Somalia that have frequently faced security attacks.
Police also appealed to members of the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities through the nearest police station or via toll-free lines operated by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations.
The operation comes barely two months after Kenyan authorities said they foiled a planned terror attack allegedly linked to Al-Shabaab during the 2026 Ramadan period.
Security agencies had claimed the militants intended to stage a major attack in Nairobi during the religious celebrations, prompting heightened surveillance and counter-terror operations across the country.
Kenya has intensified security operations in recent years as part of ongoing efforts to curb cross-border attacks and dismantle extremist networks operating within the region.
