Canada has raised a terror alert for its citizens traveling to the Kenyan counties of Mandera, Wajir, Garissa, and Lamu. The alert, posted on the government website on August 10, stems from intelligence indicating potential activities by terror groups within the region.
The move echoes a similar advisory issued by the US State Department barely a week ago.
The alert lists of particular concern the heightened possibilities of kidnappings, with foreign visitors being the primary targets. The risk assessment by Canada has been categorized as severe, indicating a potential impending assault in these areas.
The four counties listed have been subject to sporadic attacks since the beginning of the year. Most of the attacks have predominantly been aimed at government installations and telecommunication infrastructure.
The areas under potential threat encompass a wide range of locations. They include government buildings, schools, places of worship, airports, and various public transportation hubs.
Furthermore, commercial establishments such as bars, coffee shops, shopping centers, and hotels have also been singled out as potential targets.
Porous Kenya-Somali border
The advisory points out that while Kenya’s border with Somalia is officially closed, its porosity has allowed Somali militias and bandit groups to carry out cross-border attacks, often targeting foreign nationals and humanitarian workers.
These incidents have involved the use of Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs), resulting in casualties.
“Some incidents involved the use of Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) and have resulted in injuries and deaths, including at the Dadaab refugee camp, 80 km from the Somali border,” the statement reads.
Even within the capital city, Nairobi, vigilance is advised, as street crimes like mugging are prevalent. Notably, neighborhoods such as Eastleigh, Kibera, and Pangani have been flagged as areas of increased concern.
The alert comes at a time when the Kenyan government is stepping up efforts to neutralize the threat. Interior CS Kithure Kindiki has been meeting security teams from North Eastern to discuss ways of improving security in the region.
