Police foil terror attacks in Mombasa and Nairobi, arrest ISIS members

Police have foiled terror attacks in Nairobi and Mombasa after arresting two radicalized Islamic State suspects.

According to police, Kiguzo Mwangolo Mgutu and Abubakar Jillo Mohamed were planning terror attacks in Mombasa and Nairobi, after their radicalization at the Kangemi Mosque.

In a statement, Inspector General of Police (IG) Joseph Boinet said the two were planning retaliatory attacks after the arrest of their ring leader Mohamed Abdi Ali.

Police have recovered various materials that were to be used to manufacturer Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) in one of the suspects’ residence in Kangemi.

“These materials included nails, ball bearings, batteries, electrical wire, fertilizer, cell phones and other suspected explosive substances which have been taken for forensic analysis. Explosives experts have indicated that these are materials terrorists typically use in the making of IEDs. Additionally, Police also found in Kiguzo’s residence bows and poisoned arrows,” read the statement signed by the IG.

According to intelligence reports, the two were planning to escape from the country and travel to Syria or Libya after carrying out the attack targeting public transport.

“Similarly, we advise members of the public to be more vigilant while in public transport or other social places to identify persons who may be behaving suspiciously and report to the police immediately,” read the statement in part.

“We wish to alert all PSV operators to be extra alert at all times and call on the public at the Coastal counties to report to Police of any sighting of suspicious persons to the Police for action using the toll free National Police Service emergency numbers 999, 112 and 911.”