The United States government has unveiled a reward of Ksh1.3 billion (approximately $10 million) for information leading to the arrest of suspects behind the 2020 terrorist attack on the Manda Bay Airfield in Lamu, Kenya. This significant cash incentive targets Abdullahi Banati, identified as one of the masterminds of the deadly assault, and other individuals involved.
Seeking Justice for the 2020 Manda Bay Attack
In a statement released on Wednesday, May 8, the US Embassy in Somalia urged anyone with actionable intelligence to contact the US Department of State via secure communication channels such as Signal, Telegram, or WhatsApp at +1-202-975-9160.
This effort is part of the Rewards for Justice (RFJ) program administered by the US Department of State. Over its 40-year history, the RFJ initiative has disbursed over Ksh32 billion ($250 million) to individuals whose tips have bolstered US national security and thwarted terrorist activities.
The Attack: What Happened at Manda Bay
On January 5, 2020, militants linked to the Somali-based extremist group Al-Shabaab launched a coordinated attack on the Manda Bay Airfield, which serves as a joint Kenyan and US military base. Armed with Rocket-Propelled Grenades (RPGs), the attackers targeted aircraft and vehicles stationed at the airstrip.
The four-hour assault resulted in significant damage, including:
- Two fixed-wing aircraft (a US Cessna and a Kenyan aircraft).
- Two US helicopters.
- Multiple US military vehicles.
Casualties included one US service member, two US Department of Defense contractors, and several injuries to both US and Kenyan personnel.
The Ongoing Threat
Al-Shabaab, an affiliate of the Al-Qaeda network, remains a persistent threat in the region. The group has carried out numerous attacks in Kenya, Somalia, and neighboring countries, claiming the lives of thousands, including US citizens. The US government has reiterated its commitment to countering terrorism in East Africa and preventing future attacks.
“The Manda Bay Airfield is a critical base for counterterrorism operations, supporting Kenyan Defense Forces and the broader mission to protect US interests and East African partners,” the statement from the US Embassy emphasized.
Confidentiality and Security
The US government assured informants that all tips would be handled with the utmost confidentiality, urging individuals with knowledge of the attack to come forward.
