The United States has restricted its employees from visiting six counties that are currently part of a security operation by the Kenyan government to get rid of bandits.
In a statement, the US embassy in Nairobi has asked its citizens to ensure that they become very careful in the counties of Turkana, West Pokot, Elgeyo Marakwet, Baringo, Laikipia and Samburu.
“The government of Kenya has announced the deployment of additional security elements in the six Rift Valley counties listed below to address threats to security, public order, and safety,” the statement read in part.
The Embassy said that the Kenyan Ministry of Interior and Coordination of National Government issued Public Order No. 1 of 2023 imposing a 30-day nighttime curfew in the six counties. It said that the orders mean that there shall not be public gatherings or travel in the areas from dusk to dawn.
The embassy also asked them to take several actions in order to ensure that they are safe.
“Follow the instructions of local authorities to observe curfew hours in Public Order No. 1 of 2023 if you are in these areas, report any suspicious activities or security incidents to local police, review the traveler’s check to establish a contingency plan for emergencies and monitor media and local event information sources and factor updated information into your travel plans,” said the Embassy.
In the advisory which was released last week Thursday, the Embassy asked its citizens in Nairobi and other locations within Kenya to review their personal security plans.
The Embassy stated that Nairobi continues to be a prime target for terrorists who may be planning imminent attacks in the country.
“Terrorist groups could attack with little or no warning, targeting hotels, embassies, restaurants, malls and markets, schools, police stations, places of worship, and other places frequented by foreigners and tourists,” the alert read in part.
The Embassy advised citizens and foreigners to be mindful of their surroundings and keep an eye on local media for updates.
