Survivors of Al Shabaab attack arrive in Nairobi

Four survivors of the Al Shabaab attack on Kenya Defence Forces soldiers at El-Adde in Gedo, Somalia have arrived at the Wilson Airport.

The survivors were received by Defence Cabinet Secretary Raychelle Omamo who noted that full details of those injured and killed in the attack would be made public after families of the affected soldiers have been notified.

Omamo added that support facilities for the families of the fallen soldiers and those who were injured have been set up at KDF barracks in Eldoret, Gilgil and Nairobi.

An unknown number of soldiers were killed on Friday after Al Shabaab militants overran an African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) base camp at El Adde, in Somalia, triggering a fierce gunfight between KDF and the militants.

“Terrorist group Al Shabaab attacked an African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) base camp at El Adde, in Somalia. El Adde is occupied by Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) serving under AMISOM. Our gallant soldiers reacted swiftly to protect their camp; to protect their peace and stability that they are in Somalia to secure; and to protect our country from its enemies and their sympathisers,” read a statement by President Uhuru Kenyatta.

Following news of the attack, Kenyans took to social media to condole with the families of the fallen soldiers while some shared photos of the slain military men.

Interior CS Joseph Nkaissery cautioned social media users against sharing the photos; warning that the government would take legal action against those found sharing the gory images.

“We have noted with great concern that there are unpatriotic characters who are still keen on amplifying the terrorists’ agenda through sharing of photos and sympathising with the terrorists in such times of our nation’s loss,” said Mr Nkaissery.

Speaking at Serena Beach Hotel, the CS noted that sharing the images encourages the terrorists and brings sorrow to the families of the slain men.

He disclosed that they had identified four individuals that are behind the trending photos but declined to reveal their identities.

Following the attack, President Uhuru Kenyatta saluted the men in uniform who were killed in the attack saying the paid the ultimate price to protect Kenya from its enemies.

“I want to take this opportunity to express mine and the country’s deepest sympathy to the families and loved ones of the fallen. I stand with you. Our country stands with you. We deeply appreciate the sacrifices made by your loved ones in defence of our democracy, our peace and our security.”