The Counter Terrorism Policing Unit in Kenya announced on 18th February that it had averted an intended terror attack in Nairobi, which was supposedly carried out by the suspected al-Shabaab terrorists, discovering weapons and explosives that were to be used in the capital.

Security officials in a statement dated Feb. 18 said the operation was a result of months of surveillance where investigators were able to track the movements of suspects, communications and logistical networks. Officers conducted coordinated raids on the basis of intelligence and retrieved assault rifles, pistols, explosive devices and some 600 rounds of ammunition.

Officials indicated that the arms were to be used in an attack on Nairobi.

“The terrorist organisation al-Shabab had plans to kill many Kenyans in Nairobi, but the plans have been intercepted yet again by the Counter Terrorism Policing Unit,” as stated.

Early studies have shown that the suspects were supposed to execute the attack during the Muslim sacred month of Ramadan. There is also intelligence evidence that the group might be engaging in other criminal actions, such as kidnapping foreign nationals and stealing cars.

According to investigators, some parts of the network were associated with activities in the Dadaab refugee camps in eastern Kenya. The weapons and bullets that were captured were supposed to be used to attack the capital targets.

The security agencies have since increased patrols, checkpoints and more surveillance in the areas. Government officials declared that Nairobi was safe owing to counterterrorism activities that have been maintained.

One such group of al-Qaida affiliates operating in neighbouring Somalia, called al-Shabab, has launched several attacks in Kenya within the last ten years, which have targeted civilians, security forces and infrastructure.