Detectives Thwart Al Shabaab Plot Targeting Kenyans in Major Nairobi Attack

Kenyan security forces successfully disrupted a major terror plot allegedly orchestrated by the Somalia‑based militant group Al‑Shabaab that was aimed at causing mass casualties in Nairobi.

The breakthrough came on February 18 after months of intensive surveillance, intelligence gathering, and coordinated raids by the Counter Terrorism Policing Unit and other agencies.

Acting on actionable intelligence, security officers recovered a significant cache of weapons and explosives, including 600 bullets, pistols, grenades, and other explosive devices, that were believed to be used for attacks in Nairobi.

“Plans by the terrorist group Al‑Shabaab to kill many Kenyans in Nairobi have once again been foiled by the intelligence agency,” said a statement from the Counter Terrorism Policing Unit, underlining the high stakes of the operation.

Plot Timed for Ramadan, Other Criminal Plans

Preliminary investigations indicate the suspects were planning to launch the attack during the holy month of Ramadan, a period that extremist groups have historically exploited to stage high‑profile strikes.

Authorities also disclosed that the network was exploring kidnapping foreign nationals and hijacking vehicles to spread terror and ignite chaos in Nairobi.

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Heightened Security and Ongoing Investigations

Following the operation, security teams have intensified patrols, reinforced checkpoints, and expanded surveillance across high‑risk zones in the city.

Forensic experts are currently analyzing the recovered weapons and working to trace other suspected operatives linked to the plot.

“Nairobi remains safe because of the brave young men and women in our security agencies who spend long hours tracking down dangerous terrorists and criminals,” the statement added, commending the tireless efforts of intelligence officers.

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Persistent Threat from Al‑Shabaab

Kenya has long faced threats from Al‑Shabaab, which has mounted deadly attacks in the past, including the Westgate shopping mall siege in 2013 and the DusitD2 complex attack in 2019, highlighting the continuing challenge of militancy in East Africa.

Authorities have urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities as investigations continue.

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Weapons and explosives seized by the police during the PHOTO/NPS