US embassy issues security alert in Kenya, warns citizens

 

US ambassador to Kenya Margaret Whitman

The United States (US) Embassy in Nairobi has issued a security alert, warning its citizens of possible terror attacks.

According to the embassy,  terrorists may target the locations that are highly frequented by their citizens and other foreigners, including tourists in Nairobi and other parts of the country.

"The US Embassy in Nairobi reminds US citizens in Kenya that they should exercise increased caution due to the risks of terrorism and kidnapping. 

"Locations frequented by US citizens and other foreigners and tourists in Nairobi and elsewhere in Kenya continue to be targets to terrorists," the alert reads.

It further warned that terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting locations including hotels, restaurants, embassies, malls and markets.

They may also attack schools, police stations, places of worship and other places frequented by foreigners and tourists.

"While attacks can occur at any time, concerns are heightened in proximity to anniversaries of prior terrorist attacks, such as September 11th, the September 21st Westgate Mall attack, and the October 7th Hamas attack against Israel," the embassy stated.

Citizens have been advised to stay alert in locations frequented by tourists/foreigners, review their personal security plans and be aware of their surroundings.

The embassy further requested US citizens monitor local media for updates, stay away from any areas with demonstrations, as well as any crowded places.

In October 2023, Interior CS Kithure Kindiki said that since the 1998 bombing, at least 500 lives have been lost due to terror attacks in the Kenya.

The August 7, 1998 bombing was orchestrated by Al-Qaeda terrorists and hit the American Embassy.

It resulted in 213 fatalities including 201 Kenyans and 12 Americans.

by BRIAN ORUTA