KDF spokesperson Colonel David Obonyo during a past media briefing. [Photo/ the-star.co.ke]
Two suspected al-Shabaab militants were on Thursday evening shot dead by Kenya Defense Force (KDF) soldiers.The suspects were gunned down at Nyatha area of Witu division, the Star has reported.Confirming the incident, KDF spokesperson Colonel David Obonyo said the police were patrolling the area when they came across the armed militants who engaged them in an exchange of fire. "The soldiers neutralized two of the militants on the spot,” said Obonyo, as quoted by The Star.“At around 6pm Thursday, KDF troops on patrol at an area called Nyatha in Witu, Lamu County, engaged and killed two Al-Shabaab terrorists. As we speak, the fight and general operation are still ongoing. I will give more updates later,” he added, as quoted by Baraka FM.Obonyo said other suspects escaped into Boni Forest after being empowered by the KDF soldiers.On his part, Boni Enclave Campaign director Joseph Kanyiri said the operation to flush out the suspected fighters is going on well, adding that they have launched a manhunt for the criminals. He said he will give more details on the attack after investigations are complete.Residents of Jipendeni, Maisha Masha, Majembeni, Jima and Poromoko villages reported hearing gunshots for several hours following the fight between the KDF soldiers and the militia.The incident comes after Kanyiri urged IDPs in the county to go back to their homes.