A 22-year-old man suspected of plotting a terror attack in Nairobi’s Central Business District (CBD) is in custody after being found in possession of potentially lethal explosive materials. The arrest, which occurred late Tuesday night, has sparked heightened security concerns in the city already rattled by recent unrest.
According to a police report, patrol officers from Kamukunji Police Station were on routine surveillance at approximately 11:20 p.m. when they spotted a man exhibiting erratic and suspicious behavior. When approached, the suspect attempted to evade questioning, prompting a thorough inspection of a bag he was carrying.
The search revealed a chilling discovery: 21 detonators, 21 packets of a white powdery substance believed to be ammonium nitrate, and a five-meter-long electric cable, items commonly associated with bomb-making.
“Police officers on patrol at approximately 23:20 hours yesterday identified and arrested a man on suspicion of potential involvement in terror-related activities,” read a section of the official police statement.
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The suspect was immediately detained and transferred to the Anti-Terrorism Police Unit (ATPU) for interrogation. Authorities are now working to verify the nature of the materials and uncover whether the man was working alone or as part of a larger network.
Under the Prevention of Terrorism Act, 2012, the suspect could face life imprisonment if found guilty of possessing explosives with the intent to commit a terror attack. The Explosives Act also provides stiff penalties for illegal possession of detonators and related substances without proper authorization.
This dramatic arrest comes amid a wave of tension in the capital. Earlier on Tuesday, Nairobi witnessed violent protests demanding justice for slain blogger and teacher Albert Ojwang. The situation escalated when a police officer was filmed shooting an unarmed hawker at close range, an incident that has drawn sharp criticism from civil society and human rights groups.
Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja has confirmed the arrest of the officer involved in the shooting, although details about the officer’s identity remain undisclosed.
As investigations into both incidents continue, Kenyans remain on edge, grappling with questions about public safety, police accountability, and the looming threat of terrorism.
