The Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) has warned its citizens traveling to Kenya over increased terrorism targeting foreigners.
In an April 5 statement published by its travel advisory platform, the Australian government explained that cases of terrorism attacks and violent crime had increased in Kenya.
Consequently, Australian citizens were advised to exercise a high degree of caution overall while in Kenya, adding that the attacks could occur randomly at any time.
Further, the statement detailed that foreigners in Nairobi and other highly populated areas were the main targets of the attacks.
“We continue to advise exercise a high degree of caution overall due to the threat of terrorism and violent crime. Terrorists continue to maintain a strong interest in attacking foreigners in Nairobi and other major population centers in Kenya.
“Terrorist group al-Shabaab continues to threaten attacks. Further attacks are possible and could happen at any time, with little or no warning, including in areas popular with foreigners and tourists,” noted the statement.
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Areas and Persons that Could be Targeted
At the same time, the statement indicated that the attacks could occur in different forms including suicide bombings and shootings, kidnappings, roadside bomb attacks, improvised explosive devices and civil aviation.
Al-Shabaab terrorists, detailed the statement, may target foreign embassies, UN premises and international schools, hotels, tourist resorts, beaches and safari lodges shopping areas, markets, bars, nightclubs, restaurants and cafes and places of worship.
They could also attack offices of non-government organizations (NGOs) and government buildings, including educational institutions.
“Terrorists may also target transport and transport infrastructure such as airports and commercial airlines transport hubs and infrastructure, sea vessels in or near Kenyan ports.
“Foreign aid workers may be targeted at refugee camps near the Kenya-Somalia border. Terrorist attacks have occurred in Kenya in the past few years, including in Lamu, Mandera and Garissa counties,” explained the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
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Australian Govt Details How to Avoid Attacks in Kenya
To ensure safety, the statement asked Australians to be on high alert and report any suspicious items or activities to police.
Also, they were asked to take official warnings seriously and monitor the media for threats. Additionally, Australian citizens in Kenya were advised to follow the instructions of local authorities.
In case of an attack, they were informed to leave the affected area immediately if it’s safe to do so and avoid the area afterwards in case of more attacks.
“Don’t gather in groups after an attack. This also applies if you’re evacuated from a building for security reasons, such as a bomb threat,” added the statement.
