Stop harbouring Al Shabaab militants, Linda Boni director tells residents

Linda Boni Operation director Joseph Kanyiri. He has accused residents  in terror hotspots of harbouring Al-Shabaab militants and providing them with information on the movement of security officers  (Courtesy)

LAMU—Residents living in terror hotspots in the counties of Lamu, Tana River and Garissa have been accused of harbouring Al-Shabaab militants.

Linda Boni Operation director Joseph Kanyiri on Wednesday, said that the recent attacks by Al Shabaab have been successful as locals provide them with information on the movement of security officers whereas others hide terrorists when officers embark on searches.

“It’s unfortunate that the locals, particularly those in terror hotspots, see no evil and report no evil regarding enemy spies, reconnaissance parties, sympathizers, financiers and or resupply networks.” Kanyiri said

“There are no loopholes in the security structure, therefore, the only way of terrorists getting information is from residents in these counties,” he added.

He attributed the recent attack on a KDF vehicle at Kwa Omollo Bridge on the Bodhei-Bar’goni road to local community networks. Six KDF officers were killed while five others were injured in the incident.

Mr Kanyiri said security officers who operate in the affected areas have reported to having a hard time in fighting militia men as most residents are uncooperative and refuse to share information on terrorists.

“The enemy hibernates among them, We believe some residents are aware of the IEDs being planted, but they remain silent and let people die,” The Linda Boni operation director said.

Kanyiri cautioned some of the returnees who he noted may be on devious terror missions in the country.

“We are scrutinizing those who could be posing as returnees, but are here to plan attacks. The manner in which militants are operating points to the involvement of locals. Someone can’t come from Somalia and know their way around villages. They are definitely getting help,” Kanyiri said.

He noted that officers in collaboration with local administrators will continue addressing the concerns of wananchi and called on residents to give information to the security agencies, adding that it will be treated with confidentiality.

Last month, the Al Shabaab attacked a police post in Liboi Garissa where they wounded four officers. They were also repulsed by police when they staged an attack on their camp at Manza in Sheikh Barrow, Mandera.