Kenya says Al-Shabaab recruits flee Somalia for spying suspicion

Kenya Defence Force (KDF) on Wednesday said Kenyans who were recruited by Al-Shabaab militants are fleeing from the Horn of Africa nation over suspicion of spying for KDF troops.

KDF spokesman Colonel Joseph Owuoth said several youths, mainly from Lamu and Mombasa, have been executed in broad daylight as locals watch, for allegedly spying for KDF.

"We have increased operation along the Kenya-Somalia border to apprehend Kenyan youth who are escaping from Al-Shabaab and thwart possible attacks," said Owuoth.

The Kenyan government has issued an amnesty to youth to surrender. On Sunday, a Kenyan who hails from Lamu was killed by Al-Shabaab for linking intelligence information to the African Union AMISOM troops.

Two weeks ago, two Kenyans were also executed by Al-Shabaab's firing squad in Buq Aqable in Hiraan region.

At least four Al-Shabaab fighters from Kenya have so far been murdered while the fate of others remains unclear.

The fighters were recruited by Islamic extremists and even received military training in Somalia, manly youths from Kwale, Mombasa, Kilifi and Lamu counties and other parts of the country including central.

Source indicates that KDF has managed to infiltrate the militant group in Somalia by recruiting spies, including foreigners within their ranks.

Owouth promised to release the exact number of those killed in Somalia by the militant group. "We are yet to get the accurate figures but will confirm in due course," said Owouth. Endit