Kenya police issue alert over Al-Shabaab attack plans

Kenyan police have issued an alert and tightened security, saying Somalia-based Islamist group Al-Shabaab is planning to launch attacks in the country ahead of the festive season.

Inspector General of Police, Joseph Boinnet, said on Tuesday Al-Shabaab militants were planning to launch attack in the border region and the tourist resort coastal region of Mombasa, with targets including security personnel and public service vehicles.

"We are also aware Al-Shabaab is planning to amass its militants in Jedahaley area in Somalia with intention of infiltrating into the country for attacks," Boinett said.

"Some are hiding in small groups pretending to be herders around Hida and Dambala in Somalia while plotting to sneak into the country," he added.

The police chief said Al-Shabaab remains the major threat, particularly in areas along the border with Somalia.

"We have since heightened security alertness to avert any attacks and equally appeal to the public to continue cooperating with security agencies and remain vigilant," he said.

Al-Shabaab has carried out a series of attacks in Kenya since Kenyan peacekeeping troops entered Somalia to battle the group in 2011. Endit