The Somalia-based terrorist group, Al-Shabaab, has claimed responsibility for several attacks in Kenya’s Wajir, Garissa, and Lamu counties that resulted in multiple deaths and injuries on Tuesday. The first attack occurred in Bodhei, where an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) went off, killing eight special forces officers who were on routine patrol. The second attack followed near Mararani, where Al-Shabaab militants attacked security officers with a rocket-propelled grenade. In the third attack, suspected Al-Shabaab militants fired bullets at a bus near Mandera, injuring three people. Witnesses claim that the bus driver sped away from the scene.

These recent incidents have reinforced concerns over the East African region’s mounting threat posed by the Al-Qaeda-affiliated militant group. The authorities have registered a considerable surge in Al-Shabaab attacks in the northern and coastal regions of the country in recent weeks, resulting in deaths, injuries, and the displacement of families. According to security experts, the group displays a growing intent to strike the Kenyan government to demonstrate its operational capabilities, retaliate against Kenyan Defense Forces’ involvement in Somalia, and generate publicity.

The recent upsurge in attacks has heightened apprehension among Kenyan citizens and put authorities under pressure to devise more proactive measures to counter the threat. Despite Kenya’s substantial investment in security forces and technology, the group’s increasing use of IEDs and remote-controlled explosive devices presents unique challenges for the country’s security agencies. With this recent escalation, it remains to be seen how the Kenyan government will respond to the Al-Shabaab threat, undoubtedly the most significant security risk facing the country today.