Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) troops operating under Operation Amani Boni (OAB) have disrupted terrorist plans after detecting and safely destroying four Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) hidden along key supply routes in Lamu County.

According to their X post on Monday, July 20, 2026, the discoveries were made during routine dominance patrols and route clearance operations aimed at securing Major Supply Routes (MSRs) used by security forces, residents and businesses in the region.

KDF said the operations were part of ongoing Counter-Improvised Explosive Device (Counter-IED) efforts designed to prevent attacks before they happen and protect movement along critical transport corridors.

“Persistent vigilance, disciplined route clearance procedures and intelligence-led operations continue to frustrate terrorist attempts to disrupt security operations and endanger civilian movement in Lamu County,” KDF said in a statement.

During the first incident, troops conducting a route clearance and link-up patrol detected a concealed pressure plate IED before it could be activated. The soldiers immediately secured the area and called in specialists who conducted a controlled explosion to neutralise the device.

The operation prevented what could have been a deadly attack targeting security personnel or civilians using the route.

A few days later, KDF personnel discovered three more concealed IEDs during another patrol in the Sarira area of Lamu County. The explosives had been placed along Major Supply Routes at distances of approximately 5.1 kilometres, 8.27 kilometres and 8.4 kilometres.

Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) specialists responded and safely destroyed all three devices without causing injuries or damage to property.

Countering IED Threats

The recovery of the four IEDs highlights the continued threat posed by terrorist groups operating in parts of Lamu County, where militants have previously used roadside explosives to target security forces.

KDF said terrorist elements have increasingly relied on hidden explosive devices as sustained military operations limit their ability to carry out conventional attacks.

The military said intelligence gathering, route clearance missions and regular patrols have played a key role in detecting and disrupting planned attacks.

“The repeated recovery of IEDs along supply routes underscores the continued reliance by terrorist elements on hidden explosive devices following sustained operational pressure,” KDF said.

The Commander of Operation Amani Boni confirmed that security operations remain ongoing across the area of operation. Troops are continuing with offensive and stabilisation missions while securing key routes and pursuing individuals involved in planting explosives.

Operation Amani Boni was launched to address security threats in the Boni Forest and surrounding areas, including parts of Lamu County, where extremist groups have attempted to establish operational bases.

The latest operations come as security agencies continue efforts to protect communities and maintain safe movement along roads connecting villages, trading centres and security installations.

Beyond preventing attacks on military personnel, KDF said the successful detection and disposal of the IEDs helped protect civilians who depend on the routes for daily activities, including transport and trade.

The military maintained that its Counter-IED operations will continue as part of broader efforts to reduce terrorist activity and improve security in Lamu County.