At least 12 suspected terrorists are believed to be plotting an attack against
Parliament, police sources have warned, prompting all government institutions
to be put on heightened security alert.
Intelligence reports indicate that six of the suspects could be in Nairobi
already although the whereabouts of the other six are yet to be established.
Reports about the possible attack came as it emerged that the Egyptian embassy
in Nairobi had also asked Kenya’s security agents to heighten security
measures around Egyptian installations, including the embassy itself, its
envoy’s residence and other sensitive Egyptian organisations and premises.
“The Embassy kindly requests the relevant Kenyan authorities to take what it
deems appropriate to upgrade and tighten security measures around Egyptian
installations in Kenya,” said the letter dated February 20.
Intelligence reports have warned that a vehicle carrying explosive materials
is likely to be used against Parliament unless police thwart the attempt. It
was not clear where the vehicle could be and when the attack will be carried
out.
The attack, according the security report, was planned by Mr Mohammed Mohamud
alias Dulyadeen alias Gamadheere, who heads one of the arms of Al-Shabaab, the
Somali-based terrorist group.
MANDERA BUS ATTACK
Mohamud, who had claimed responsibility for November 22 bus attack in Mandera,
is said to have dispatched 12 foreign fighters to Kenya about three weeks ago.
On receiving reports about the threat of possible attack, Parliament
immediately came up with measures to deal with the threat.
Additional security officers were deployed both inside and outside the
premises to prevent any security breach and to respond swiftly in case of an
attack.
The acting Inspector-General of Police, Mr Samwel Arachi, on Sunday said that
security had been enhanced around all critical government installations.
“We have deployed both static and mobile teams,” he said. The teams are backed
up by over 100 security staff attached to Parliament.
A senior officer has been assigned to in charge of all the police officers
undertaking the operation regardless of the units that seconded them.
Parliament has also directed that all the 500 security officers who work with
MPs as bodyguards to undergo extensive training in VIP protection and how to
fight terrorism.
Parliament is also in the process of acquiring a new and sophisticated
security system to respond adequately to new security challenges, including
terrorism.