Kenyan security agencies have foiled a major terrorist plot by Al-Shabaab aimed at causing mass casualties in Nairobi during the holy month of Ramadhan. The Counter Terrorism Policing unit announced on Wednesday that a prolonged intelligence operation targeting a terror network operating within the Dadaab refugee camps led to the recovery of arms and ammunition destined for the capital.
In a statement released on Wednesday, February 18, the Counter Terrorism Policing unit revealed that the operation was the result of months of intense surveillance and covert intelligence gathering on a terror network operating within the Dadaab refugee camps. The intelligence-led operation led to the recovery of a cache of weapons, including 600 bullets, pistols, grenades, and explosives. Authorities also seized drugs that were linked to the plot.
According to the agency, the suspects intended to use the recovered weapons to target various locations in Nairobi. Beyond the planned mass casualty event, the cell was also exploring the possibility of engaging in additional criminal activities, such as kidnapping foreigners and hijacking vehicles.
The agency reassured the public of their safety, stating, “Nairobi remains safe because of the brave young men and women in our security agencies who spend long hours tracking down dangerous terrorists and criminals.”
This successful operation follows a recent suspected Al-Shabaab attack in Garissa County, where a primary school teacher and a chief were killed in Hulugho town. Local leaders, including Garissa Women Representative Edo Udgoon Siyad and Ijara MP Abdi Ali Abdi, have condemned the ongoing threat and called for enhanced security measures in vulnerable regions.