Kenya: US Embassy indicates credible threat to Westerners

Event

The US Embassy issued a security alert to its citizens on Monday, February 4, warning that credible information indicates there is currently an increased risk of extremist activity targeting Westerners in Nairobi, Naivasha, Nanyuki, and coastal areas. The alert did not provide any additional details on the nature of the threat, but advised all those present in the country to exercise increased vigilance, particularly in public spaces particularly prone to attack such as malls, hotels, and places of worship. A visibly heightened security presence is to be anticipated in the near-term at sensitive sites in the abovementioned areas in light of the perceived threat. 

Advice

Individuals present in Kenya are advised to monitor developments to the situation, to maintain a heightened degree of situational awareness - particularly when visiting areas frequented by Westerners - and to report any suspicious objects or behavior to the local authorities or their security manager.