Kenya Police reassure public after US, UK issue security warnings

Acting Inspector General of Police Gilbert Masengeli. [Edward Kiplimo, Standard]

The National Police Service (NPS) reassured the public of safety and security, stating that officers across the country remain on alert.

On Saturday, September 14, the NPS said on X: "The National Police Service would like to take this opportunity to reassure members of the public of their safety and security and reaffirm that NPS officers deployed across the country remain alert to protect our country."

The announcement followed a security warning from the U.S. embassy in Kenya on Friday, September 13, urging American citizens to stay vigilant and avoid overcrowded places including places of worship, malls, hotels and restaurants.

"While attacks can occur at any time, concerns are heightened in proximity to anniversaries of prior terrorist attacks, such as September 11, the September 21 Westgate Mall attack and the October 7 Hamas attack against Israel," the U.S. embassy said.

Americans were advised to keep a low profile, avoid protest areas and stay alert in locations frequented by foreigners and tourists.

The UK embassy in Kenya also issued a travel advisory, recommending only essential travel.

The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) advised British citizens to avoid travel within 60 kilometres of Kenya's border with Somalia, including Mandera and Lamu counties except for Lamu and Manda islands and Tana River County.

"There have been frequent attacks in the northeastern border regions, most of which were attributed to al-Shabab. Attacks have killed members of the Kenyan security forces as well as civilians. Armed militia groups operate within the Boni National Reserve and along the border with Somalia," said FCDO.