China issues security alert in kenya

The Chinese embassy in Kenya has issued a travel advisory for Kenya, advising its citizens to avoid travelling to some areas of the country due to increased security threats.

In a statement by the embassy on Wednesday, the South Asian nation urged its citizens to exercise caution when visiting counties such as Mandera, Wajir, Lamu, Garissa, and other Kenyan border towns. The embassy also warned Chinese citizens against visiting areas where foreigners gather as well as crowded places.

“In recent times, as global hot issues continue to heat up, Kenya’s domestic security situation has become increasingly uncertain,” read part of the statement.

“The Consular Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Chinese Embassy in Kenya remind Chinese citizens in Kenya to pay close attention to the local social security situation, strengthen their own safety precautions, try to avoid going to areas where foreign tourists gather and crowded places, and be cautious when going to Mandera County, Wajir County, Garissa County, Lamu County and other Kenyan border areas.”

Unlike Western countries, Chinese embassies and the foreign ministry rarely give security alerts. This year alone, the United States has given at least five alerts, which affects the movement of tourists as foreigners avoid areas perceived to be risky. 

Chinese citizens have also been advised to contact the Embassy in the event of an emergency.

“In the event of an emergency, please call the police promptly and contact the Chinese Embassy in Kenya or the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ Global Consular Protection and Service Emergency Call Center.”

The advisory by the Chinese Embassy deviates from the usual practice of the Asian Country, which typically refrains from issuing warnings to its citizens travelling to Kenya.

The statement comes two weeks after the US Embassy also issued a travel advisory, urging its citizens to avoid specific areas in Nairobi. 

The US embassy warned that Nairobi remains an attractive target for terrorists to conduct imminent attacks. 

It also advised its citizens to stay alert in locations frequented by tourists or foreigners, review their security plans and be aware of their surroundings.

“Terrorist groups could attack with little or no warning, targeting hotels, embassies, restaurants, malls and markets, schools, police stations, places of worship and other places frequented by foreigners and tourists,” the Embassy stated.

Via Kenyans.

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