NAIROBI, February 19, 2026 – Kenya’s Counter Terrorism Policing Unit said it has foiled a planned terror attack in Nairobi allegedly linked to suspected Al-Shabaab operatives, seizing weapons and explosives intended for use in the capital.
In a statement dated February 18, the unit said the operation followed months of surveillance and covert intelligence gathering. Investigators monitored the suspects’ movements, communications and logistical networks before carrying out coordinated raids based on actionable intelligence.
Authorities reported recovering assault rifles, pistols, explosive devices and approximately 600 rounds of ammunition. Officials said the weapons were destined for targets within Nairobi.
“Plans by the terrorist group Al-Shabaab to kill many Kenyans in Nairobi have once again been foiled by the intelligence agency,” the Counter Terrorism Policing Unit said in its statement.
Preliminary investigations indicate the suspects were allegedly planning to execute the attack during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan. Intelligence assessments also suggested the group was exploring additional criminal activities, including kidnapping foreign nationals and hijacking vehicles.
Security officials said the disrupted network had links to operations within the Dadaab refugee camps in eastern Kenya. Further investigations are ongoing, with forensic experts analysing the recovered weapons and tracing other individuals believed to be connected to the plot.
Following the operation, security agencies intensified patrols, reinforced checkpoints and heightened surveillance in areas considered potential targets. Authorities assured the public that Nairobi remains secure due to sustained counterterrorism efforts.
Al-Shabaab, an Al-Qaeda-linked militant group based in neighbouring Somalia, has carried out multiple attacks in Kenya over the past decade, targeting civilians, security personnel and key infrastructure.
