LAMU, Kenya – Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja has conducted a high-level security assessment in the Boni enclave, Lamu County, as part of ongoing efforts to combat terrorism and ensure safety during the festive season.
Kanja, accompanied by senior police and military officials, visited several security installations, including the General Service Unit (GSU) camp in Mokowe and other strategic locations in the region.
The tour aimed to bolster coordination among multi-agency teams engaged in Operation Amani Boni, a security initiative targeting militants in the dense Boni Forest.
The Boni area has long been a hotspot for terror-related incidents due to its proximity to the porous Kenya-Somalia border.
These attacks have left scores dead, displaced families, and hindered development.
The militants, often crossing into Kenya from Somalia, have used the forest as a base for launching attacks before retreating to their strongholds.
Addressing security personnel during his visit, Kanja lauded their dedication and resilience in a challenging environment.
“Your selflessness and commitment are vital in safeguarding not just this region but the entire country. The safety of our cities is directly linked to your vigilance along our borders,” he said.
Kanja’s briefing began at the Kenya Navy Base in Manda Bay, where military officers provided updates on the ongoing operation.
He acknowledged the progress made in reducing terror activities but emphasized the need for heightened vigilance as the holiday season approaches.
The government has ramped up resources to support the security teams operating along the border areas of Lamu, Mandera, Wajir, and Garissa—regions that have borne the brunt of terror attacks.
Multi-agency efforts involving the police, military, and intelligence units have reportedly disrupted militant activities, leading to a noticeable decline in attacks.
Despite these gains, challenges persist, particularly given the instability in neighboring Somalia, which has struggled to establish a functioning government capable of addressing cross-border terrorism.
Kanja’s visit underscores the government’s commitment to restoring normalcy in the Boni enclave and its surroundings.
Senior officials accompanying him included Deputy Inspector General of the Administration Police Service Gilbert Masengeli, Commandant GSU Ranson Loolmodoni, and NPS spokesperson Dr. Resila Onyango.
Kanja, accompanied by senior police and military officials, visited several security installations, including the General Service Unit (GSU) camp in Mokowe and other strategic locations in the region.
The tour aimed to bolster coordination among multi-agency teams engaged in Operation Amani Boni, a security initiative targeting militants in the dense Boni Forest.
The Boni area has long been a hotspot for terror-related incidents due to its proximity to the porous Kenya-Somalia border.
These attacks have left scores dead, displaced families, and hindered development.
The militants, often crossing into Kenya from Somalia, have used the forest as a base for launching attacks before retreating to their strongholds.
Addressing security personnel during his visit, Kanja lauded their dedication and resilience in a challenging environment.
“Your selflessness and commitment are vital in safeguarding not just this region but the entire country. The safety of our cities is directly linked to your vigilance along our borders,” he said.
Kanja’s briefing began at the Kenya Navy Base in Manda Bay, where military officers provided updates on the ongoing operation.
He acknowledged the progress made in reducing terror activities but emphasized the need for heightened vigilance as the holiday season approaches.
The government has ramped up resources to support the security teams operating along the border areas of Lamu, Mandera, Wajir, and Garissa—regions that have borne the brunt of terror attacks.
Multi-agency efforts involving the police, military, and intelligence units have reportedly disrupted militant activities, leading to a noticeable decline in attacks.
Despite these gains, challenges persist, particularly given the instability in neighboring Somalia, which has struggled to establish a functioning government capable of addressing cross-border terrorism.
Kanja’s visit underscores the government’s commitment to restoring normalcy in the Boni enclave and its surroundings.
Senior officials accompanying him included Deputy Inspector General of the Administration Police Service Gilbert Masengeli, Commandant GSU Ranson Loolmodoni, and NPS spokesperson Dr. Resila Onyango.
