The Embassy of the United States of America in Nairobi, Kenya, on Monday resumed services to the public after a two-day closure following a shooting incident at the Embassy entrance.
The Embassy posted on their Facebook page that they are grateful for the ongoing security being provided by the Kenyan police.
“We are cooperating with Kenyan authorities on the investigation of the incident on Thursday, October 27 and refer all questions about the investigation to them,” said the Embassy statement.
The Embassy has posted limited information regarding the incident since it happened last Thursday, only advising all media to direct their queries to the Kenyan authorities dealing with the case.
On Thursday, the Embassy stated that none of its personnel were involved and that no US citizens were affected by the incident adding that routine consular services for non-US citizens had been cancelled leaving only emergency consular services for US citizens.
“Review your personal security plans, remain aware of your surroundings, including local events, and monitor local news stations for updates. Be vigilant and take appropriate steps to enhance your personal security,” said the Embassy.
They urged their citizens to enroll in the State Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to get the latest security updates as well as read the travel warnings to Kenya.
A man wielding a knife last Thursday stabbed a Kenya security officer who was on guard at the Visa entry gate of the Embassy. Media and authorities were quick to label him as Al shabaab. Witnesses said it was not clear what the altercation was about between the policeman and the attacker.
Witnesses said the attacker was shot dead and the area cordoned off from the public although the public still took photos of the man lying on the ground and posted them on social media where they went viral.
Kenyans took to social media to question the rational of seeking information from the local authorities while the photos circulating on social media clearly shows the FBI personnel on the ground near the shot man. In the photos the Kenyan police appear to be standing on guard as the FBI comb the scene for evidence.
