U.S Embassy issues security advisory in Kenya

The Embassy of United States in Kenya has issued a security advisory of possible increase of crime and acts of violent extremism in the country.

The Embassy has urged people living in Kenya to exercise caution and need to be vigilant while in public locations.

“The U.S. Embassy reminds the public of the continued need for sustained vigilance in public locations such as shopping malls, hotels, airports, clubs, restaurants, transportation hubs, schools, places of worship and other areas frequented by tourists.  Public events, such as demonstrations and celebratory gatherings, are also at a higher risk for violence,” stated the Embassy.

The embassy appealed to the people to avoid areas such as shopping malls, hotels, airports, clubs, restaurants, transportation hubs, schools, places of worship and other areas frequented by tourists.

Public events, such as demonstrations and celebratory gatherings, are also at a higher risk for violence.

Citizens have been advised to review their personal security plans and to be aware of their surroundings while also monitoring local media for updates.

The statement comes hours after France urged its citizens who are in Kenya to be vigilant while visiting public places as there is a real risk of targeting public places frequented by foreign nationals, particularly in Nairobi.

The embassy said that the terrorists are targeting public places frequented by foreign nationals, including restaurants, hotels, places of leisure and shopping malls especially in Nairobi.

“People in Kenya are advised to exercise extreme vigilance and avoid frequenting these public places in the coming days, including this weekend,” the alert reads.

The National Police Service today confirmed that the countries security is heightened.

Through a statement, NPS Spokesman Bruno Shioso has urged members of the public remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities.

He assured Kenyans of their safety saying the service has fortified security systems in information sharing to ensure credibility.

“The service has re-engineered her police units in line with modern day policing dynamics, challenges and emerging threats. Security operations that ensure that imminent attacks are forestalled proactively remain our priority,” read the statement.