Clan politics and infighting within the Al-Shabaab group has fueled change of strategy and onslaught in Kenyan soil, reports the Nation.
National Intelligence Service report seen by the Nation indicates that at least 18 Al-Shabaab militants crossed from Somalia to Wajir where they are targeting National Police Reservists.
Confidential government dispatches reported that on June 19, at least 18 Al-Shabaab militants were reported hiding between Bojigarsa and Mansa in Wajir County with the intention of attacking security postings in Kutulo, Mansa and Bojigarsa.
Their main target was said to be National Police Reservists (NPR) personnel patrolling the area.
The terrorists were said to be under the leadership of Abdirashid Ibrahim Osman, from Kutulo in Wajir. Last week terrorists raided Konton centre in Wajir East, targeting NPRs.
“The NPRs fought their attackers as locals fled the town. The NPRs ran away after running out of ammunition,” a filed security report seen by the Nation shows.
Last week, three NPRs we're abducted by the militants in Wajir, days before the report was released. A day after their abduction, seven police officers were killed by an explosive that was planted by the militants.
Early this month, similar intelligence reports also showed that over 40 militants crossed over from Somalia to Kenya and took refuge in Lafey Sub County in Mandera.
“Security agencies remain on high alert to suppress and counter Al-Shabaab’s heightened activity along our common border with Somalia,” said National Police Service Director of Communication Charles Wahong’o in a statement.
Despite the assurance by the security teams, last weekend, Al-Shabaab militants raided Yuumbis village in Garissa but were repulsed by security forces.