Kenya: We shall defeat Al-Shabaab

File: Kithure Kindiki addresses a public baraza in Moyale town in Marsabit County in February.

NAIROBI - Kenya insists that Al-Shabaab militants will be fought to their submission following increased attacks in Northeastern and Lamu areas, which specifically target security officers for the last few weeks, even as the country continues to improve surveillance along the border.

Kithure Kindiki, the country's security minister, embarked on a fact-finding mission in the north following the attacks, a trip which had him visit Wajir, Garissa, and Mandera counties which have been a hotbed of terror for a while. The militants have also been targeting nonlocals.

“The government shall defeat al Shabaab and all violent extremists who continue to threaten our national security and destabilize communities in Northeastern Kenya,” he said. His visit came as gunmen raided a village in Garissa and killed one person leaving two others with serious injuries.

According to reports, the gang raided Bula Hodan's Wagberi ward on Monday morning before killing people. This is one of the attacks which have triggered a response from the security teams including the Kenya Defense Forces troops along the border.

According to witnesses, the gang arrived and started firing indiscriminately at the residents leading to the death of one Ahmed Dekow Tohow Hilowle and injuries of Liban Ali Ibrahim and Fardosa Abdiwahab Haji Yussuf, the Star reports.

Witnesses recounted the terrifying moments when the sound of gunshots reverberated through the usually peaceful neighborhood, prompting people to flee for their lives. This is the latest terror-related incident to happen in the area amid an operation to address the menace.

In his speech at Mandera, Kindiki said the government will do all it takes to fight and end the terror menace in the country. The government has also heavily invested in the modernization of weapons in a bid to assist security forces defeat the militants.

“We have already set aside $200 million to purchase advanced security equipment, including armored personnel carrier vehicles, drones, and other gadgets so that our security agencies get proper safety as they effectively fight the terrorists," the CS said.

Last week, General Francis Ogolla, the Chief of Defense Forces, toured Somalia in a morale-boosting trip as Kenya Defense Forces troops prepare for the final assault on Al-Shabaab militants. The militants have been running away from Somalia due to sustained security operations.

GAROWE ONLINE