GARISSA — Kenyan security forces have successfully foiled a planned terrorist attack by the Somali-based militant group Al-Shabaab in Garissa County, northeastern Kenya, officials have confirmed.
In a statement released by the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC), the Special Operations Group (SOG) conducted a swift operation that disrupted what authorities described as a “serious terror plot” aimed at targeting civilians and security personnel along a key road linking Welmerer and Yumbis.
The operation followed reports from local residents who had noticed suspicious movements in the area. Intelligence gathered indicated that a group of eight Al-Shabaab fighters had been preparing roadside bombs and other improvised explosive devices (IEDs) to ambush security patrols and civilian vehicles.
“The SOG unit acted immediately upon receiving credible intelligence from the public,” said an NCTC official. “During the engagement, a brief exchange of gunfire occurred, after which the suspects fled, leaving behind several explosive materials intended for attacks.”
Security forces recovered multiple IED components, detonators, and communication gadgets believed to have been used by the militants. The explosives were later neutralised by bomb disposal experts.
Local authorities praised the cooperation between residents and security forces, describing it as a model for community-based counter-terrorism.
“The alertness of the community played a crucial role in preventing what could have been a devastating attack,” the NCTC said in its statement. “We encourage citizens to remain vigilant and continue reporting suspicious activities.”
The incident comes as Kenya intensifies counter-terrorism operations across the north-eastern region, which includes Garissa, Wajir, and Mandera counties. These areas have seen repeated infiltration attempts by Al-Shabaab militants crossing the border from Somalia in recent months.
Security analysts say the latest operation demonstrates the growing effectiveness of Kenya’s intelligence-led security approach, which relies heavily on cooperation between state agencies and local communities.
“The success of the Garissa operation shows the importance of timely intelligence sharing,” said a Nairobi-based security expert. “It also highlights how community vigilance can save lives.”
The Kenyan government has vowed to maintain heightened alertness along the border with Somalia, with ongoing joint patrols and surveillance operations aimed at deterring cross-border incursions.
Despite sporadic attacks, officials say the situation in the region remains under control, crediting the Special Operations Group (SOG) and other security units for their rapid response and professionalism.
As investigations continue, Kenyan authorities have reaffirmed their commitment to dismantling Al-Shabaab networks operating inside the country and ensuring the safety of citizens living in border regions.
