Uhuru mourns 9 KDF soldiers killed in Somalia

President Uhuru Kenyatta has mourned the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) soldiers who were killed on Sunday evening in a suspected Al Shabaab attack in Dhobley, Somalia.

In a statement to newsrooms, Kenyatta said he was appalled and saddened by the incident that occurred after a vehicle the soldiers were travelling in ran over an Improvised Explosive Device.

The soldiers were on a routine night patrol when their vehicle hit the IED.

“Earlier today, I was appalled and saddened to learn that we had lost nine young patriots to a cowardly terrorist attack in Somalia. These men gave their lives for their country, and for peace; we must, and we will, honour their service, their sacrifice and their valour,” said Kenyatta.

“The mission for which they gave everything  will continue until the evil terrorists of Al Shabaab are defeated, and the people of Somalia are safe once more. We owe victory to the fallen. You may be sure we will win, for we have right and might on our side.”

The President added: “May God rest the souls of our warriors, and may he grant their families the courage to bear this loss.”

The landmine suspected to have been laid by Al Shabaab militants extensively damaged the vehicle which was part of a convoy but was the only one damaged in the massive explosion.

Seven KDF officers died on the spot while two others who had sustained serious injuries succumbed while receiving treatment.

The Department of Defence is waiting for a bomb damage assessment report from officers on the ground before issuing an official statement on the attack.