Following the attack, multi-agency teams launched a rapid response operation to pursue those behind the deadly ambush.
The Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) has heightened security operations in Lamu County following the death of three soldiers in a suspected terror attack.
In an official statement released on Tuesday afternoon, KDF confirmed that its troops on patrol along the Sankuri-Kiunga Main Supply Route encountered an improvised explosive device (IED).
The incident occurred during a routine patrol under Operation Amani Boni.
“Early this afternoon, Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) troops on patrol along the Sankuri-Kiunga Main Supply Route (MSR) encountered an improvised explosive device (IED),” the statement read.
Following the attack, multi-agency teams launched a rapid response operation to pursue those behind the deadly ambush.
“Immediately after the incident, multi-agency security teams launched operations in pursuit of perpetrators of the heinous act and have heightened the manning of routes in and out of the area to deny the enemy freedom of movement,” KDF stated.
Three soldiers were critically injured and later succumbed to their wounds.
KDF confirmed their deaths with deep sorrow, stating, “Regrettably, three gallant soldiers succumbed to their injuries. These soldiers paid the ultimate sacrifice while protecting the citizens of Kenya.”
Wounded personnel were swiftly airlifted and evacuated to specialised military medical facilities within the region.
According to KDF, the injured soldiers are responding well to treatment.
The Kenya Defence Forces extended condolences to the bereaved families and paid tribute to the fallen soldiers.
“The entire KDF fraternity condoles with their families,” the statement noted, recognising the bravery and sacrifice made in the line of duty.
KDF also lauded the swift intervention by the combined security teams involved in the operation.
“Kenya Defence Forces recognises the courage demonstrated by the personnel and appreciates the swift response by multi-agency teams operating in the area,” it said.
Despite the tragedy, KDF reaffirmed its commitment to restoring peace in the volatile Boni enclave and its surroundings.
“KDF and the entire multi-agency Operation Amani Boni fraternity remain unbowed and have the resolve to ensure that sustainable peace is attained in the area of responsibility,” read the final part of the statement.
The Boni Forest region, which borders Somalia, has been the focus of sustained military operations targeting Al-Shabaab militants and their local networks.
KDF Reinforces Security and Development in Lamu with Community Outreach Initiatives
Given its residency in Lamu County, KDF has been reaffirming its commitment to lasting peace and development through strengthened military presence and community-focused initiatives under Operation Amani Boni.
On June 17, 2025, senior military officials led by Brigadier David Chesire, Commander of the 6th Brigade, toured key areas including Milimani, Basuba, Mangai, and Mararani.
The visit was part of ongoing efforts to engage with local communities and reassure residents of KDF’s sustained operations in the region.
“We are here to listen and to work with you,” Brigadier Chesire told local administrators and elders during the engagement forums.
“KDF remains firmly committed to ensuring security and stability in this region through both protection and partnership.”
The meetings were attended by local chiefs, assistant county commissioners, police commanders, and community leaders who raised security and development concerns.
KDF officers encouraged continued collaboration with security agencies and promised further support through civil-military initiatives.
The engagements camme just days after KDF handed over newly constructed classrooms to Bahati Njema Primary School in Lamu West on June 15, 2025.
The three classrooms, built by the Bargoni-based troops, are part of a broader education support effort aimed at uplifting learning standards in historically marginalised areas.
Speaking at the handover ceremony, local leaders welcomed the development, terming it a boost for children’s access to quality education.
The project was implemented in consultation with the school community to address acute infrastructure gaps.
“These classrooms will reduce overcrowding and give our learners a safer, more comfortable learning environment,” one school representative said during the event.
The dual approach—combining military readiness with humanitarian support—highlights KDF’s evolving role in securing and stabilising regions previously vulnerable to Al-Shabaab incursions.
Lamu County, particularly areas near the Boni Forest, has in recent years seen increased KDF presence under Operation Amani Boni.
The operation, launched in 2015, is aimed at flushing out militants, restoring peace, and facilitating development in hard-to-reach areas.
Brigadier Chesire acknowledged the progress made, but also stressed the importance of continued vigilance.
“We cannot afford complacency. The gains we’ve made are significant, but they must be protected through continued collaboration with local communities.”