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Two Kenyan Border Patrol Unit officers lost their lives on Wednesday after their patrol vehicle was struck by an improvised explosive device (IED) planted by al-Shabaab militants along the Liboi–Kulan road in Garissa County. According to police at the scene, the deadly explosion happened near the Kenya–Somalia border, roughly 370 kilometres northeast of Nairobi. The officers were on a routine patrol when their vehicle drove over the hidden device, which militants are believed to have planted earlier and detonated remotely. The blast tore through the vehicle, instantly killing both officers and leaving behind a scene of destruction.
Images taken shortly after the incident show just how powerful the explosion was. The patrol vehicle was torn apart and flipped onto its side, with pieces of twisted metal scattered across the sandy road. A deep crater left by the blast could be seen at the centre of the scene, marking the exact spot where the device exploded. Security personnel who arrived later were seen examining the wreckage and collecting evidence as part of an ongoing investigation. Police say the attack bears all the hallmarks of al-Shabaab’s tactics, which often involve planting explosives along key routes used by security forces.
Kenya has dealt with repeated al-Shabaab attacks for more than a decade, particularly since the country deployed troops to Somalia in 2011 under the African Union Mission, now known as the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS). While Kenya’s involvement aims to support Somalia in stabilising areas affected by the militant group, the decision has triggered a pattern of retaliation from al-Shabaab. The group frequently launches raids, ambushes and roadside bombings targeting Kenyan security personnel, especially in counties close to the border.
Garissa County, where Wednesday’s attack occurred, is among the regions most affected by this violence. Along with neighbouring Mandera and Wajir, it has become a hotspot for cross-border incursions linked to al-Shabaab. Security officials say the militants take advantage of long, poorly monitored border stretches, rugged terrain and limited infrastructure. These conditions make it easier for attackers to plant explosives or launch surprise attacks before retreating back across the border.
Wednesday’s incident has once again highlighted the ongoing challenges Kenyan security forces face in these remote areas. Patrols in regions like Liboi and Kulan are often carried out under high risk, as militants continue to rely heavily on IEDs—one of their most destructive and unpredictable methods of attack. Authorities say such devices are usually buried along commonly used security routes, making them difficult to detect without specialised equipment.
The deaths of the two patrol officers add to a growing list of casualties from similar attacks over the years. Police officials and local leaders have condemned the incident, calling it a tragic reminder of the dangers faced by officers working to keep border communities safe. Security agencies have already begun investigations and are expected to increase surveillance and patrols in the area to prevent further attacks. The government has also reaffirmed its commitment to securing the border and continuing efforts to weaken al-Shabaab’s operational networks.
Residents living near the border hope the government will step up security measures to protect both civilians and security personnel. Many say the constant threat of militant activity has disrupted daily life, limited movement and created a sense of fear that has lingered for years. Despite these challenges, communities in Garissa and surrounding counties remain resilient, often cooperating with authorities by providing information that helps identify threats or suspicious movements.
As Kenya continues to work with regional and international partners to combat terrorism, incidents like the one in Garissa serve as a stark reminder that the threat remains active. The loss of the two officers underscores the ongoing sacrifice made by frontline security teams who operate in harsh and dangerous environments to maintain stability and protect the nation.