Kenyan security agencies put on high alert

Security agencies were on Tuesday put on alert in Kenya following the killing of Al-Qaeda terror network mastermind Osama bin Laden by US forces in Pakistan.

The military said troops had been beefed up at border points while the police enhanced surveillance of “suspicious characters.”

Surveillance was also heightened at key installations including hotels, airports, government buildings, shopping malls as well as United States and European missions in Kenya.

Police spokesman Eric Kiraithe however said there was no cause for alarm.

“All suspicious characters on the terrorists watch list have been placed under 24-hour surveillance. We are vigilant and there is no need for anxiety. However, as usual this is a collective responsibility and the public should cooperate with police,” he said.

Mr Kiraithe assured Kenyans and tourists that the country is safe in the aftermath of the death of bin Laden.

There have been fears of reprisals worldwide following the death of the Al-Qaeda leader in Pakistan.

Mr Kiraithe said security had been heightened countrywide including at entry points such as airports and ports in case of any eventuality.

He assured holidaymakers that the country was safe and appealed to them to enjoy their holidays without fearing for their safety.

The police official said the government has beefed up security in all tourist hotspots to secure visitors, workers and the tourist facilities.

“The government has put up the necessary security measures to protect its citizens, properties and international tourists in case of any eventualities,” he said.

“All entry points including borders, airports and ports have been secured by our security forces. Kenyans and visitors therefore don’t need to worry about their safety,” he added.

He, however, appealed to the public to volunteer information to police in case they came across suspicious people.

Military spokesman Bogita Ongeri said: “We are liaising with all security agents to ensure Al-Shabaab, which is linked to Al-qaeda, does not extend it operations to Kenya. Our borders have been secured and areas where security intelligence has advised.”

Osama’s death was received well by the Kenya Government.

Government spokesman Alfred Mutua termed it a “defining moment in the fight against terrorism.”

“Kenya was the first country to be attacked by Al Qaeda and Osama Bin Laden’s death comes as a relief to many of the victims of the bombings in East Africa,” he said in a statement on the official website.

Dr Mutua added: “We are realistic that terrorism is an ideology that will not end overnight due to Osama Bin Laden’s death but hope that his death will be the beginning of the end of terrorism. As a country, we have to remain diligent and work with our partners to fight this international crime.”

Kenya has been on revived security alert for the last two weeks following intelligence reports that Al-Shabaab operatives were planning attacks.

The Al-Shabaab group is fighting the internationally recognised Transitional Federal Government in Somalia.