Security agencies 'not overwhelmed by Lamu attacks'

A security team exchanges notes at Bujara Ranch in Lamu County after five people were killed at Pandanguo in Witu, Lamu West, on June 23, 2014, when a gang armed with guns and machetes attacked villagers. PHOTO/WILLIAM OERI

The government has denied claims that security agencies are overwhelmed by attackers who terrorised Lamu residents on Saturday night.

Lamu County Commissioner Miiri Njenga, however, reiterated that an elite special force had been deployed to flush out the suspects.

"The armed forces are combing the dense Boni Forest, where heavily armed assailants are believed to be hiding," Mr Njenga said.

Kenya Air Force jets flew above the forest on Sunday as witnesses reported hearing two loud bangs.

STOLE RIFLES

They said the attackers demanded to know the location and operations of security forces deployed in the region.

The attacks, which initially begun in Mpeketoni, spread to Witu, Kibaoni, Mukoe and, most recently, Pandanguo village.

On Thursday last week, the attackers raided the same Pandanguo village and torched two classrooms, an administration block and a food store.

The gunmen also stole six rifles from the Kenya Police Reservists.