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Captured Al-Shabaab militants ‘targeted Gikomba’


Nairobi’s Gikomba market was the main target of 10 suspected Al-Shabaab militants arrested in Kenya, police said on Thursday.

Deputy Inspector-General Grace Kaindi, who did not disclose more details about the suspects, said police were working closely with intelligence officers to investigate whether there were other militants who evaded arrest.

“They mainly targeted Gikomba market, but intelligence reports helped to thwart their plan,” said Ms Kaindi.

“We are requesting the public to assist, especially residents of Nairobi and its environs to report any suspicious people around them,” she added.

NATIONALITY UNKNOWN

Police were yet to identify the nationality of the 10 suspects, said Ms Kaindi.

“It’s hard for Al-Shabaab to tell the truth about their identity, but what we know is that they sneaked into the country to commit acts of terrorism but were arrested before executing their plan,” she said.

Nairobi County Police Commander Benson Kibue said details about the nationality of the militants would be disclosed soon after investigations are completed.

“Terrorism investigations are very sensitive; all government security agencies are working together to unearth their network and where they come from,” he said.

TIGHT SECURITY

Mr Kibue assured Nairobi residents of tight security around town and all areas that might be targeted by terrorists.

At the same time, Ms Kaindi dismissed reports that security officers involved in a disarmament operation in Kapedo, Baringo County, are harassing the residents.

“Most of the locals who are fleeing are doing so out of fear; their villages are not even targeted by the officers,” she said.