A 22-year-old man suspected of planning a terrorist attack in Nairobi’s Central Business District (CBD) has been arrested and is currently being questioned by the Anti-Terrorism Police Unit (ATPU).
The arrest happened on Tuesday night after officers from Kamukunji Police Station noticed the suspect walking suspiciously along the streets of Nairobi at around 11:20 p.m.
According to a police report, the man’s unusual and nervous movements raised suspicion, leading officers on patrol to stop him and inspect the contents of the bag he was carrying.
Upon searching the suspect, the officers discovered 21 detonators, 21 packets containing a white substance believed to be ammonium nitrate, a five-meter-long electric cable, and other suspicious items.
“Police officers on patrol at approximately 23:20 hours yesterday identified and arrested a man on suspicion of potential involvement in terror-related activities,” part of the official police report stated.
After the discovery, the suspect was arrested on the spot and later handed over to the ATPU for further investigations. The interrogation will help determine whether the man was acting alone or as part of a larger terrorist group.
Under Kenyan law, specifically the Prevention of Terrorism Act of 2012, the suspect could face serious charges if it is proven that he intended to use the explosives to carry out a terror attack.
The law includes severe punishments, including life imprisonment, for anyone found guilty of planning, aiding, or executing terror activities.
Moreover, the suspect may also be charged under the Explosives Act, which makes it illegal to possess explosive materials like detonators and ammonium nitrate without proper authorization.
If confirmed that he had no legal documentation for the items found on him, he could be charged for unlawful possession of explosives.
This incident comes at a time when the country, especially Nairobi, remains tense due to recent protests sparked by the killing of popular blogger Albert Ojwang. On Tuesday, the city saw chaotic scenes as protesters demanded justice for the slain blogger.
Adding to the public outrage, a video went viral showing a police officer shooting an unarmed street vendor at close range with a shotgun.
The incident has drawn strong criticism from human rights activists and the general public, who have condemned the use of excessive force by law enforcement officers.
In response to the public pressure, Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja confirmed that the officer involved in the shooting had been arrested. However, details about the officer’s name and identity have not been disclosed.
The arrest of the terror suspect in the CBD highlights the heightened security concerns in the country, especially during a period of civil unrest.
Police have since increased patrols in major towns and public areas to ensure safety and prevent any potential threats.
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