The United Kingdom and the French governments have issued alarms to their citizens in Kenya over terrorist attacks during the month of Ramadan.
“In the context of upcoming religious holidays (notably Easter and Ramadan), Kenyan police services are reporting an increased terrorist risk during the month of April in Kenya,” the French embassy in Kenya said.
The embassy added that:
“It is therefore recommended that all people present in the country exercise extreme vigilance and stay away from any gathering during this period.”
UK embassy said that there is a high risk of terrorism during religious holidays.
“During this period, United Kingdom nationals are advised to be extremely vigilant.”
The foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has been advised against all but essential travel to:
- · Areas within 60km of the Kenya-Somali border
- · Eastern Garissa County (up to 20km north-west of the A3)
- · Mandera County (excluding Mandera West sub-county)
- · Lamu County (excluding Lamu Island and Manda Island)
- · Areas of Tana River County north of the Tana river itself (up to 20km north-west of the A3)
- · Within 15km of the coast from the Tana river down to the Galana (Athi-Galana-Sabaki) river.
Earlier this year, the government of Kenya ramped up operations to disrupt any terror attack plans in the country.
Police headquarters told Kenyans to remain vigilant and warned there would be disruptive measures in some places, including major roads and premises.
More checks were being mounted at road entrances to various premises.