Three Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) soldiers lost their lives and seven others sustained injuries on Tuesday after their military vehicle struck an improvised explosive device (IED) during a routine patrol along the Sankuri–Kiunga Main Supply Route (MSR), near the Kenya-Somalia border.
According to official reports, the patrol was part of ongoing security operations aimed at deterring the movement of Al-Shabaab militants across the porous border.
The ambush occurred in an area known to be volatile, particularly due to its proximity to the Boni Forest, a region frequently exploited by extremist elements for cross-border incursions.
In a statement released by KDF’s Strategic Communications Office, the military confirmed the casualties and expressed deep sorrow over the loss of the three officers, who were hailed as heroes.
“Regrettably, three gallant soldiers succumbed to their injuries.
These soldiers paid the ultimate sacrifice while protecting the citizens of Kenya. The entire KDF fraternity condoles with their families,” read the statement.
The seven injured soldiers were swiftly evacuated to military medical facilities in Kiunga, where they are reportedly responding well to treatment.
KDF emphasized that specialized care is being provided as the institution monitors their recovery closely.
In response to the attack, KDF and other multi-agency security teams launched a hot pursuit operation to track down the perpetrators.
Checkpoints and patrols have been intensified along all key routes in and out of the area to limit militant movement.
“Immediately after the incident, multi-agency security teams launched operations in pursuit of the 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 said.
The military further reaffirmed its commitment to the ongoing Operation Amani Boni — a joint initiative aimed at restoring peace and stability in the region.
“Kenya Defence Forces recognises the courage demonstrated by the personnel and appreciates the swift response by multi-agency teams operating in the area.
KDF and the entire multi-agency Operation Amani Boni fraternity remain unbowed and are resolute in ensuring that sustainable peace is attained in the area of responsibility.”
The attack is the latest in a series of security challenges faced by Kenyan forces operating in the border regions, where militant activity remains a persistent threat.
KDF urged the public to remain vigilant and to support ongoing operations aimed at securing Kenya’s borders and safeguarding national security.
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