Plans by the Somalia-based terror group Al-Shabaab to carry out a major attack in Nairobi during the holy month of Ramadhan were foiled following months of intelligence-led operations, security agencies have said.
In a statement on Wednesday, February 18, Counter Terrorism Policing said the plot was aimed at causing mass casualties in the capital during the holy month.
The agency revealed that the operation was the result of prolonged intelligence work and covert monitoring of suspects linked to Al-Shabaab.
“Plans by the terrorist group Al-Shabaab to kill many Kenyans in Nairobi have once again been foiled by the intelligence agency.
“Months of surveillance and covert intelligence gathering on a terror network operating within the Dadaab refugee camps led to the recovery of arms and ammunition including 600 bullets, pistols, grenades, explosives, and drugs all destined for targets in Nairobi,” the statement read.
According to the agency, the suspects had timed the planned attack to coincide with Ramadhan and were also considering additional criminal activities.
“The terrorists, who had planned to carry out the attack during the month of Ramadhan, were also exploring possibilities of kidnapping foreigners and hijacking vehicles,” the statement further read.
The agency assured Kenyans that security teams remain vigilant and committed to protecting the country from extremist threats.
“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,” the statement concluded.
