The US Embassy in Nairobi has released a security advisory, cautioning its citizens about the potential for terrorist attacks.
In a statement issued on Friday, the Embassy indicated that terrorists might target popular locations in Nairobi and other parts of Kenya that are frequently visited by foreigners and tourists. The statement, dated October 13, 2023, emphasizes that these locations remain appealing to terrorists who are planning to carry out attacks in the near future. The Embassy also warns that these attacks could occur suddenly and without prior notice, targeting hotels, restaurants, embassies, malls, markets, schools, police stations, places of worship, and other spots frequently visited by foreigners and tourists.
Citizens have been advised to remain vigilant when in tourist or foreign-populated areas, review their plans and be mindful of their surroundings. Additionally, the Embassy recommends that citizens stay updated through local media, avoid areas with protests or demonstrations, avoid large crowds, and maintain a low-profile presence. The specific cause of the security alert has not been disclosed. On a separate note, Interior CS Kithure Kindiki stated on Wednesday that the country has experienced at least 500 fatalities from terror attacks since the 1998 bombing.
The August 7, 1998 bombing saw Al-Qaeda terrorists target the American Embassy resulting in the loss of 213 lives, including 201 Kenyans and 12 Americans. In his address to the Senate, Kindiki highlighted the government’s efforts to enhance counter-terrorism measures. These initiatives involve the establishment of various specialized units, such as the Anti-Terrorism Police Unit, National Counter Terrorism Center, Joint Terrorism Task Force, Financial Reporting Center, Coastguard, Trans National Organised Crime Unit, and Asset Recovery Agency.
Additionally, the government has implemented the Personal Identification Secure Comparison and Evaluation System within immigration services. Kindiki also emphasized the continuous training and deployment of specialized Formed-up Police Units (SOG, QRU, GSU) at the Kenyan borders.
