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Three KDF soldiers killed, seven injured in Lamu IED attack, triggering a swift multi-agency response and renewed calls for vigilance along Kenya’s volatile coastal border. The deadly explosion occurred on Tuesday, July 15, when a Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) patrol vehicle struck an improvised explosive device (IED) on the Kiunga–Sankuri road in the Badaah area of Lamu County.
According to security officials, the soldiers were returning from a transport mission in Sankuri when their vehicle hit the hidden device. The blast killed three soldiers instantly and left seven others with serious injuries. The wounded personnel were evacuated to Kiunga Hospital and later transferred to specialised military medical facilities, where they are reportedly responding well to treatment.
The KDF Strategic Communications team confirmed the incident and expressed condolences to the families of the fallen soldiers, describing them as “gallant heroes who paid the ultimate sacrifice while protecting the citizens of Kenya.” The attack has reignited concerns over the persistent threat posed by terrorist elements operating near the Kenya-Somalia border.
In response, security forces launched a major operation to track down the perpetrators, deploying additional patrols and checkpoints along the Kiunga–Sankuri route. The area, which falls under Operation Amani Boni, has long been a hotspot for Al-Shabaab activity, with militants frequently crossing into Kenya through the porous Boni Forest.
The explosion comes just days after a similar IED attack in Garissa County, where two civilians were killed on the Ijara–Bodhai road. Authorities believe the attacks are part of a coordinated effort by militants to destabilize the region and target security personnel.
Lamu East Deputy County Commissioner George Kubai confirmed the heightened threat level and urged residents to cooperate with authorities. “We are in hot pursuit of these criminal elements. Our forces are combing suspected hideouts, and we ask locals to report any suspicious activity,” he said.
The Commander of the Kenya Army, Lt Gen David Ketter, had visited troops in Lamu just days before the attack, reinforcing morale and assessing ongoing operations under both AUSSOM and Operation Amani Boni. His visit underscored the strategic importance of the region and the need for sustained counterterrorism efforts.
The KDF reiterated its commitment to maintaining peace and security in the region, stating that the multi-agency teams remain “unbowed and resolute” in their mission. The incident has prompted renewed calls for enhanced surveillance, better equipment for patrol units, and increased community engagement to prevent future attacks.
As Kenya mourns the loss of its soldiers, the nation is reminded of the sacrifices made daily by its armed forces in the fight against terrorism. The blast not only highlights the dangers faced by security personnel but also the urgent need for regional cooperation and intelligence sharing to combat cross-border threats.