Joint Operation Targets Terror Networks Across the Region
Interpol, in collaboration with Afripol, has arrested 17 Kenyans, including suspected members of ISIS and Al-Shabaab, as well as individuals involved in terrorism financing, radicalization, and propaganda. The arrests were part of a coordinated East African counter-terrorism operation conducted between November and December 2024, which led to the apprehension of 37 suspects and the seizure of various weapons.
Key Findings and Arrests
The operation targeted high-profile terror suspects, including foreign fighters linked to extremist groups. According to Interpol, intelligence gathered prior to the operation identified individuals and their known locations, enabling law enforcement agencies to conduct precise raids.
“Participating countries prepared operational plans, gathering intelligence on terror-related targets, which was then consolidated and analyzed by Interpol and Afripol,” read an official statement.
In addition to arrests, the operation included the confiscation of small arms, heavy weapons, and materials linked to radicalization efforts.
Supporting Regional Security
East Africa’s challenges, such as porous borders and political instability, make it a hotspot for terrorist activity. Interpol and Afripol provided on-the-ground support, including real-time data analysis, logistics, and coordination, to enhance the capabilities of local law enforcement.
Cyril Gout, Interpol’s Acting Executive Director of Police Services, emphasized the importance of collaboration:
“These results demonstrate the power of international cooperation in combating terrorism and organized crime. By pooling resources and intelligence, we can stay ahead of these evolving threats.”
Ambassador Jalel Chelba, Acting Executive Director of Afripol, echoed the sentiment, stating:
“Tackling terrorism requires a unified strategy that addresses both immediate risks and deeper vulnerabilities. This operation highlights the importance of partnerships in disrupting criminal networks.”
Kenya’s Ongoing Terror Threats
Kenya continues to face significant threats from terrorism. The country has suffered devastating attacks, including:
- 1998 US Embassy bombing
- 2013 Westgate Mall attack
- 2015 Garissa University massacre
- 2019 Dusit D2 hotel attack
These incidents underscore the need for ongoing vigilance and stronger border controls.
About the Operation
The crackdown was executed under the Interpol Support Programme for the African Union (ISPA), a six-year initiative funded by the German Federal Foreign Office. Running from 2020 to 2026, ISPA aims to enhance Afripol’s role in combating transnational organized crime, terrorism, and cybercrime across Africa.
