Kenya: Al-Shabaab claims responsibility for attack on a construction site in Lamu County March 11

Event

Al-Shabaab is claiming responsibility for the March 11 attack on a construction site along the highway near Majengo in Lamu County. Kenyan officials confirmed that at least four people died in the incident and a Chinese national is missing. However, Al-Shabaab claims that six people were killed, including a Chinese national. The attackers also burnt two vehicles and damaged a bridge.

Heightened security and localized transport disruptions are likely in the impacted area. Additional Al-Shabaab attacks are possible in the region over the near term.

Context

Al-Shabaab, along with some radicalized local sympathizers, operates in Kenya and carries out mainly opportunistic attacks. The threat is highest along the Kenya-Somalia border in Lamu, Garissa, Wajir, and Mandera counties. Al-Shabaab typically targets private citizens, law enforcement personnel, and transport vehicles.

Advice

Avoid the scene of the incident until authorities have secured the area and given the all-clear. Heed the instructions of local security personnel. Maintain contact with diplomatic missions.