Security agencies in Mandera County have intensified operations in Lafey Sub-County following an attack on a police camp by suspected Al-Shabaab militants on Friday evening.
The assault targeted the Fino Special Operations Group (SOG) Camp at around 5:10 p.m., prompting a fierce exchange of fire between security officers and the attackers.
According to police reports, between eight and ten heavily armed militants approached the camp from the eastern side before launching an attack using Rocket-Propelled Grenades (RPGs) and automatic weapons.
“Three RPGs were fired towards the camp. One struck inside the facility and destroyed a toilet structure, while the other two landed at Fino Centre,” a police report stated.
The attackers then unleashed sustained gunfire using PKM machine guns and AK-47 rifles, triggering a firefight that lasted for more than 30 minutes.
Security officers stationed at the camp responded swiftly and managed to repel the attackers before they could breach the facility.
“Officers at the camp successfully repulsed the militants and secured the area,” the report added.
The attack left one police officer injured after he sustained a knee wound during the exchange.
Two civilians were also injured after being caught in the crossfire at the nearby trading centre. Authorities identified them as 18-year-old Umer Dakane Afey, who suffered a minor leg injury, and 25-year-old Maulid Farah Hussein, who sustained minor head injuries.
Both victims received medical attention and were reported to be in stable condition.
Following the attack, multi-agency security teams launched extensive clearance operations across Lafey and surrounding areas in pursuit of the fleeing suspects.
“Heavy clearance patrols led by multi-agency security teams are ongoing to track down the attackers and prevent any further security threats in the area,” security officials said.
The latest incident underscores the persistent security challenges facing counties along Kenya’s border with Somalia, where Al-Shabaab militants have continued to carry out sporadic attacks targeting security installations and civilian populations.
Authorities have heightened surveillance in the region as investigations into the attack continue.
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