Kenya has long been a target of terrorism, and the threat remains persistent. Director of Criminal Investigations (DCI) Mohammed Amin has emphasized that countering terrorism requires a collective effort from all law enforcement agencies to ensure national security.
Speaking at the closing ceremony of the Counter Terrorism Senior Investigators Course at the KCC Leadership Centre in Karen, Nairobi, Amin underscored the global nature of terrorism and the necessity of a coordinated response.
“Its impact cuts across the globe and needs to be approached through a unified effort. We have to defeat it,” he stated.
The two-week course, attended by 14 officers from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations’ Anti-Terrorism Police Unit (ATPU), focused on equipping participants with advanced leadership skills and specialized investigative expertise in counter-terrorism. The training aimed to enhance their ability to handle complex terror cases with greater precision and efficiency.
The event saw the participation of key dignitaries, including the United Kingdom High Commissioner to Kenya, Neil Wigan, who encouraged the officers to utilize their new skills in tackling terrorism. Wigan praised the continued collaboration between the DCI and the United Kingdom in strengthening law enforcement capabilities.
Also present were Director ATPU, Said Kiprotich, Course Director, Detective Superintendent Luke Marks, and Training Director, Mark Lawson, among others.
Kenya has suffered multiple terror attacks in the past, significantly affecting businesses and leading to loss of lives and injuries. The primary threat comes from Somalia’s al Shabaab militants, who frequently target Kenya due to its proximity and shared porous border with Somalia. These terror groups exploit the border’s vulnerabilities to infiltrate the country and carry out attacks.
To counter these threats effectively, Kenyan police have been advocating for more specialized training sessions for detectives involved in counter-terrorism operations. Strengthening investigative expertise and inter-agency collaboration is crucial in mitigating the impact of terrorism and enhancing national security.
With ongoing efforts to bolster counter-terrorism initiatives, law enforcement agencies remain committed to safeguarding Kenyan citizens from the ever-present threat posed by extremist groups.
