Mwakilishi
Wednesday March 30, 2022
The United Kingdom has warned its citizens in Kenya against
visiting certain parts of the country over the increased threat of terrorism.
In a travel advisory, UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and
Development Office (FCDO) said there is a high risk of terrorism during
religious holidays, including terrorist kidnappings.
The department warned against all but essential travel to
areas within 60km of the Kenya-Somali border, Eastern Garissa County, Mandera
County (excluding Mandera West sub-county), and Lamu County (excluding Lamu
Island and Manda Island.
Travelers were similarly advised to avoid areas of Tana
River County, north of the Tana River itself, and 15 km of the coast from Tana
River down to the Galana River.
The British government asked citizens who find themselves in
the abovementioned areas to be wary of terrorist attacks spearheaded by
Somalia-based terror group Al-Shabaab.
“The main terrorism threat is from extremists linked to Al
-Shabaab, a militant group in Somalia opposed to the Somali government,” FCDO
stated.
“Attacks could occur at any time, including around religious
or other public holidays or celebrations. Attacks could be indiscriminate in
places frequented by foreigners. You should avoid regular patterns of movement
and aim to travel during daylight hours.”
The UK further noted that there is a heightened threat of
terrorist kidnapping targeting Westerners, including British nationals, in the
said areas.
“British nationals are viewed as legitimate targets,
including those engaged in tourism, humanitarian aid work, journalism or
business sectors. If you’re kidnapped, the reason for your presence is unlikely
to serve as a protection or secure your safe release,” the alert added.