The US government on Monday issued an alert to its citizens in the country indicating that they are likely targets of extremist terrorist groups.
In the fresh security alert shared on Nairobi Embassy's social media accounts, the US highlighted the areas of Nairobi, Nanyuki, Naivasha and the Coastal region as the hot zones of possible attacks.
“We strongly recommend that US citizens traveling to or residing in Nairobi enroll in the Department of State’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP),” the US embassy indicated.
"If you don’t have internet access, enroll directly with the nearest US embassy or Consulate," it added.
STEP enrollment is a program that gives foreigners in the country the latest security updates and also makes it easier for the US embassy or consulate to establish communication in cases of emergency.
The Embassy also advised Kenyans, in general, to be more vigilant over terror threats.
It informed that there is an apparent need for heightened vigilance especially in public areas such as hotels, malls, and places of worship.
A tweet by the Embassy indicated, "Credible information indicates Westerners may be targeted by extremists. The Embassy reminds the public of the continued need for heightened vigilance throughout Kenya, especially in public spaces such as shopping malls, hotels, and places of worship."
The alert comes weeks after the terror attack at the DusitD2 complex in Westlands, Nairobi, which left 21 people dead among them a GSU officer.
The US government also advised foreigners to have their travel documents easily accessible and up to date.
Everyone in the country was equally advised to review their personal security plans in the face of terror threats.
ALERT: Credible information indicates Westerners may be targeted by extremists in Nairobi, Naivasha, Nanyuki, and coastal areas of Kenya. We remind the public of the continued need for heightened vigilance throughout Kenya. Read more: https://t.co/5BQGNQ9hvF
