The United States Embassy in Kenya has issued a security alert, warning its citizens against traveling to specific regions in the country due to increased risks of terrorism, crime, banditry, and kidnapping. Among the high-risk areas listed are Turkana, West Pokot, and counties along the Kenya-Somalia border.
According to the advisory, travelers are urged to avoid the Kenya-Somalia border counties, including Garissa, Wajir, and Mandera, as well as Tana River County and parts of the coastal region north of Malindi due to threats of terrorism and kidnapping. Additionally, the embassy warns against travel to West Pokot and western Turkana due to persistent banditry.
Furthermore, the advisory highlights security concerns in parts of Marsabit and Turkana counties within 30 miles (50 kilometers) of the Ethiopian border, citing cross-border incursions as a significant threat.
In Nairobi, travelers are advised to reconsider visiting Eastleigh and Kibera due to crime and kidnapping risks. The embassy also cautions that violent crime, including carjackings, muggings, home invasions, and kidnappings, can occur at any time. Local police are reported to have limited capacity to respond to serious crimes and terrorist incidents effectively.
The advisory emphasizes that emergency medical and fire services in the country are limited and warns against traveling after dark due to crime and poor traffic safety.
The US Embassy urges its citizens to exercise extreme caution, stay informed about security developments, and adhere to local authorities’ directives when in Kenya.
