Kenya: Overnight curfew imposed in Lamu county January 9

Event

An overnight curfew was imposed in Lamu county on Thursday, January 9, following a series of Al-Shabaab terror attacks in recent days. According to Lamu county police commander Perminius Kioi, the curfew is in effect from 22:00 until 04:00 (local time) and applies to all cars, motorbikes, and sea-faring vessels. Public service vehicles, private vehicles, and motorbikes will also be subject to security checks on highways and other ports of entry, as well as all vehicles transporting good to Lamu via the Mokowe Jetty. It is unclear how long the curfew and other measures will remain in place.

A heightened security presence and increased security measures are expected throughout Lamu county. Additional Al-Shabaab attacks are possible in the region over the near term.

Context

On Sunday, January 5, Al-Shabaab fighters assault the Manda Bay Airfield in Lamu county, killing one American soldier and two contractors. At least four people were killed on Thursday, January 2, after Al-Shabaab militants ambushed a civilian bus traveling near the border with Somalia.

Advice

Individuals in Lamu county are advised to monitor developments to the situation, remain vigilant for militant activity, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities and their home governments.

Due to various security concerns, many Western governments advise against travel to a number of regions in the country, including areas bordering Somalia (parts of Garissa, Mandera, Wajir, and Lamu counties), Ethiopia, and South Sudan. Nonessential travel to the city of Mombasa and several Nairobi neighborhoods (including Eastleigh and Pangani) is also advised against.