The Kenyan police undertook an intense training session sponsored by the United States Special Forces on counter-terrorism.
The training, which took place at the US Embassy in Nairobi on Saturday morning, October 30, included drills on hostage situations and responding to explosions.
During the US - Kenya Joint Readiness Exercise, simulated explosions, gunfire, and casualties were part of the exercise that attracted the attention of Kenyans on social media platforms.
The exercise also included the evacuation of casualties to local hospitals and emergency rooms. This training exercise was planned in a bid to enhance the abilities of first responders to manage large-scale emergency situations.
Special police units in heavy gear were seen following commands on how to manoeuvre in times of a crisis and save hostages.
In one of the videos shared, the exchange of heavy gunfire was heard as a commanding officer directed the police and US Special Forces on how they would respond. The units were seen running and firing in the direction the attack was coming from.
Later a loud explosion was heard while the units made away from it. In another video, the officers in heavy combat gear were seen entering the premises to rescue hostages which was part of the drill exercise.
"The US - Kenya Joint Readiness Exercise includes the evacuation of casualties to local hospitals and emergency rooms. This training exercise enhances the abilities of first responders to manage large-scale emergency situations," the US Embassy stated.
The exercise was attended by representatives from the Kenyan government and the US Department of State’s Bureau of Diplomatic Security.
Kenyans had been alerted by the National Police Service on the exercise and warned that traffic would be disrupted during the drill exercise.
This was the sixth exercise conducted by the United States and Kenya to build counter-terrorism capabilities, according to the US Embassy.
"Expect traffic disruptions in the areas of the US Embassy and Rosslyn Academy from 10am to 3pm. Use alternate routes," the Embassy stated.
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