Security in the East African Community (EAC) is on high alert after terrorists linked to Somalian outfit, Al-Shabaab attacked a busy upscale part of Nairobi along 14 Riverside Road on Tuesday evening.
The terrorists set several cars ablaze, set off two blasts and opened fire against unarmed civilians before the Kenyan Police stepped in and rescued at least 174 people from Dusit Hotel and nearby shopping mall.
In Uganda, the Uganda Police Force and the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) have released a joint statement to show their readiness to deal with any attack from terrorists .
Brig. Richard Karemire, the UPDF spokesperson told the media that the army has already deployed across the borders to secure Ugandans and also issued guidelines on how to detect a bomb, a terrorist and where to report.
“Our assurance is that we, together with other sister security organs, have secured all our border entries and exits. However, in as much as we are in charge, we call upon all of you to be vigilant in your places of work, worship, entertainment centres and shopping malls among others populated places,” he said.
Karemire urged Ugandans not to live in fear because the army is on standby and ready to engage any “enemy” both internally and externally.
In Kenya, the scene is still cordoned off and has been declared an active crime scene. President Uhuru Kenyatta is also expected to address the nation shortly.