A 22-year-old man was arrested in Nairobi on suspicion of involvement in terror-related activities after being found in possession of multiple explosive components. The suspect was apprehended by police officers on routine patrol near Kamukunji after displaying suspicious and erratic behavior. His demeanor raised immediate concerns, prompting officers to stop and interrogate him.
Upon conducting a search, officers discovered 21 detonators and 21 packets of a white powdery substance believed to be ammonium nitrate a chemical commonly used in the manufacture of improvised explosive devices (IEDs). In addition, a five-metre electric cable and other materials believed to be used in assembling explosive devices were also recovered from his possession.
Authorities responded swiftly by detaining the suspect and transferring him to the Anti-Terrorism Police Unit (ATPU) for further questioning and investigations. Police believe the suspect may have been preparing for an attack or working as part of a larger network. The substance retrieved will undergo forensic testing to confirm its chemical composition and potential use in explosives.
The arrest highlights the vigilance of security agencies in the ongoing fight against terrorism in the country. Police emphasized that such proactive patrols and community alertness are critical to maintaining public safety. They further stated that efforts to detect and disrupt terror plots remain a top national security priority.
This incident comes against the backdrop of increasing concern over domestic radicalization and the potential infiltration of terror groups within urban centers. Nairobi, being a major metropolitan hub, has frequently been a target for surveillance by anti-terror units due to its strategic importance and high population density.
According to government data, between January 2022 and November 2024, Kenya successfully thwarted 47 planned terrorist attacks across various regions. In the same period, security forces neutralized several suspects and secured 11 convictions in terrorism-related cases. These achievements were attributed to improved intelligence sharing, increased training for security personnel, and enhanced cooperation with international partners.
Kenya’s counterterrorism strategy has seen increased collaboration with countries such as the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Israel, Japan, China, and South Korea. These nations have provided crucial support in the form of training, modern equipment, and technical expertise to Kenyan security agencies.
Officials expressed their commitment to maintaining high levels of preparedness and resilience in the face of evolving threats. They reiterated the need for continued public cooperation, urging citizens to report any suspicious individuals or activities to the authorities promptly.
As investigations into the suspect’s possible connections and intentions continue, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the ever-present threat of terrorism and the importance of ongoing vigilance.
