Security boosted after US advisory

Police have heightened security in and around Naivasha town following a terror alert issued by the US Embassy.

On Monday, the embassy identified Nairobi, Naivasha, Nanyuki and coastal towns as possible targets for terrorists and advised residents to be on high alert.

A statement from the embassy advised US citizens travelling to or residing in Nairobi to enroll in the Department of State’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP).

“STEP enrollment gives you the latest security updates, and makes it easier for the US embassy or nearest US consulate to contact you in an emergency. If you don’t have Internet access, enroll directly with the nearest US embassy or consulate,” read the statement.

The statement advised Kenyans and foreigners to be aware of their surroundings and be careful while visiting locations frequented by tourists and Westerners.

It came weeks after terrorists stormed 14 Riverside complex, killing 21 people and injuring 30 others.

Following the alert, officers drawn from various security departments have been deployed to key installations and hotels in Naivasha, with a major operation targeting aliens in the offing.

Political leaders, hoteliers and religious leaders called on residents to be more vigilant and report any suspicious people in the town. A senior police officer who declined to be named said intelligence-gathering has also been boosted.

“Even before the warning by the US Government, our officers were on high alert,” he said.

Naivasha sub-county commissioner Jim Njoka said the government was not taking the alert lightly, adding that all intelligence and security forces had been alerted.

Mr Njoka called on residents to work with security officers in identifying any suspicious persons in the town.

Naivasha Hoteliers Association chairman Peter Mehta said security in and around hotels has also been heightened.

Lakeview ward rep Karanja Mburu called for more vigilance in shopping malls, hotels and places of worship in the town.