US Embassy issues security alert in Kenya, warns citizens

US Ambassador to Kenya Margaret Whitman

The US Embassy in Nairobi has issued a security alert, warning its citizens of possible terrorist attacks.

According to the embassy, Terrorists may attack locations that are frequently visited by their citizens and other foreigners, including tourists in Nairobi and other parts of the country.

“The U.S. Embassy in Nairobi reminds American citizens in Kenya to exercise extra caution due to the risks of terrorism and kidnapping.

“Locations in Nairobi and elsewhere in Kenya frequently visited by U.S. citizens, foreigners, and tourists remain terrorist targets,” the warning said.

It also warned that terrorists could attack with little or no warning and target locations such as hotels, restaurants, embassies, shopping malls and markets.

Schools, police stations, places of worship and other places frequented by foreigners and tourists can also be attacked by them.

“While attacks can happen at any time, concerns are heightened around the anniversaries of previous terrorist attacks, such as September 11, the September 21 Westgate Mall attack and the October 7 Hamas attack on Israel,” the embassy said.

Citizens are advised to remain alert in areas with high tourist/foreigner traffic, consult their personal safety plans and be aware of their surroundings.

The embassy further requested American citizens toCheck local media for updates. Stay away from areas where demonstrations are taking place and from crowded places.

In October 2023, Interior Ministry Kithure Kindiki said at least 500 people have been killed in terrorist attacks in Kenya since the 1998 bombing.

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

213 people were killed, including 201 Kenyans and 12 Americans.

by BRIAN ORUTA