The National Police Service has dismissed reports of a planned terror attack in Nairobi, labeling a widely circulated security alert as fake.
In a statement dated Sunday, February 9, 2025, the Police Authority flagged the post making rounds on social media as false.
“We wish to caution the general public that the document circulating on social media, purported to be from the Kenya Police Service, is fake,” read the statement.
The misleading letter, allegedly from the Kenya Police Service, had issued a security alert warning of a potential terror attack in Nairobi by the Somalia-based militant group, Al-Shabaab.
Police Dismiss Claims of Terror Attack in Nairobi
According to the fake memo dated February 7, 2025, Dagoretti Sub-County Police Commander Kivinda Kilonzo had reportedly directed all station police officers (STAPOLs) in the region to heighten security measures across the city.
The memo claimed that intelligence reports indicated Al-Shabaab was planning retaliatory attacks following the killing of their fighters and leaders.
The fabricated memo listed major shopping malls, government buildings, recreational parks, Western embassies, and other high-traffic areas as potential targets.
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It also mentioned hotels, international schools, and social gathering spots frequently visited by foreigners as vulnerable locations.
Additionally, the fake document stated that police had called for intensified screening measures at government facilities and public areas to prevent potential attacks. It further urged law enforcement agencies to remain on high alert and increase security patrols throughout the city.
5 Chiefs Abducted by Al Shabab
The clarification of the threat attack comes came days after 5 chiefs were reportedly abducted by Al Shaba militants ahead of President William Ruto’s tour in Northeastern region.
It was reported that the five chiefs went missing on Monday, February 3, after being ambushed and kidnapped by suspected terrorists in Elwak, Mandera County.
According to police and witnesses, the group was travelling in a vehicle to Elwak when they were attacked and hijacked between Bamba Owla and Ires Suki.
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The administrators were on their way to a meeting to coordinate security plans ahead of President William Ruto’s scheduled visit to the region during that week.
On his part, President Ruto during the tour of the region President Ruto assured Mandera residents that his administration would pursue the suspected Al-Shabaab militants who abducted the chiefs.
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