Al-Shabaab member gunned down in Kenyan coastal town

Kenya's anti-terrorism detectives on Wednesday killed a member of Somalia-based Al-Shabaab Islamist group in the coastal town of Kwale.

Regional police commander, Francis Wanjohi, said Juma Mohamed Jakarata alias Modi Tulia was gunned down for engaging in terrorism activities. A grenade was recovered from his house during the dawn operation.

Jakarata is a "Somalia trained Al-Shabaab returnee", the police commander said.

"Upon being challenged, he attempted to hurl a grenade at police officers but was shot dead just outside the house," he added.

Jakarata's girlfriend and brother Majid Akiba Miwa, who was living in an adjacent house, were arrested and are assisting with investigation. Body of suspect removed to hospital pending autopsy.

Jakarata is believed to be behind the killing of three community leaders and one reformed Al-Shabaab returnee in Bongwe area in June. The four had come out openly to oppose extremism ideologies of Al-Shabaab.

The government says there are over 1,500 Al-Shabaab returnees in Kenya, and many of them have surrendered after a State Amnesty Program was announced last year.

Coast regional Coordinator, Nelson Marwa, said security had been tightened in the region to avert attacks during Eid festivals.

He assured locals and visitors of security following alert of possible terrorist attacks in Lamu county.

Locals reported an alleged sighting of Al-Shabaab militants in Lamu on Sunday. Endit