1st LD: Kenya says no police officer killed in Al-Shabaab ambush

Kenyan police on Tuesday denied reports that Al-Shabaab on Monday night killed dozens of police officers during an ambush in a village in northeastern Garissa County.

Inspector General of Police Joseph Boinett said only five police officers were injured - two critically and three others sustained minor injuries.

Boinett also confirmed that five vehicles were burnt down when Al-Shabaab ambushed the police officers who were on a patrol within Fafi and Yumbis areas on Monday evening.

"Arising from the attack, a contingent of officers responded for reinforcement and on arrival at the scene, engaging the attackers in a heavy fire-fight. In the ensuing tactical mission, two officers were critically injured, three sustained minor injuries and five vehicles were burnt down," Boinett said in a statement issued in Nairobi.

The police chief said a combined security operation involving the police and military is managing the situation in the region which borders Somalia.

"Operation to subdue the attackers is on course and as we establish more information, we shall inform the public accordingly, " Boinett added. Endi