Major Terror Attack Foiled in Nairobi as Ramadan Starts

Security agencies have foiled a planned large-scale terror attack in Nairobi that was allegedly timed to coincide with the start of the holy month of Ramadan, according to the Counter Terrorism Policing Kenya.

In a statement issued Wednesday, the agency said the plot was linked to the Somalia-based extremist group Al-Shabaab, and was uncovered after months of surveillance and covert intelligence operations targeting a suspected terror network operating within the Dadaab refugee camps.

“Plans by the terrorist group Al-Shabaab to kill many Kenyans in Nairobi have once again been foiled by the intelligence agency,” the statement said.

Authorities disclosed that the intelligence-led operation led to the recovery of a significant cache of weapons and other materials believed to have been destined for targets within the capital.

Among the items seized were 600 bullets, pistols, grenades, explosives and drugs.

“Months of surveillance and covert intelligence gathering on a terror network operating within the Dadaab refugee camps led to the recovery of arms and ammunition including 600 bullets, pistols, grenades, explosives, and drugs all destined for targets in Nairobi,” Counter Terrorism Policing Kenya stated.

Investigators further revealed that the suspects had allegedly planned to execute the attack during Ramadan, a period of religious observance for Muslims worldwide, in what authorities believe was an attempt to maximize casualties and public fear.

MAJOR TERROR ATTACK FOILED!
Plans by the terrorist group Al-Shabaab to kill many Kenyans in Nairobi have once again been foiled by the intelligence agency.

Months of surveillance and covert intelligence gathering on a terror network operating within the Dadaab refugee camps led… pic.twitter.com/LxdGpeQYtX

— Counter Terrorism Policing KE (@CTP_Kenya) February 18, 2026

“The terrorists, who had planned to carry out the attack during the month of Ramadhan, were also exploring possibilities of kidnapping foreigners and hijacking vehicles,” the agency added.

Although the statement did not specify the number of suspects arrested or whether any had been formally charged, security officials indicated that operations remain ongoing to dismantle the wider network behind the alleged plot.

Kenya has faced repeated security threats over the years from Al-Shabaab, which has claimed responsibility for several deadly attacks both within Somalia and on Kenyan soil.

The group has frequently targeted public spaces, security installations and civilian populations in retaliation for Kenya’s military involvement in Somalia.

Security analysts note that the timing of the alleged plot at the beginning of Ramadan may have been calculated to exploit heightened public gatherings and increased movement in urban centers.

Counter Terrorism Policing Kenya commended members of the country’s security services for their vigilance and dedication in preventing the attack.

“Nairobi remains safe because of the brave young men and women in our security agencies who spend long hours tracking down dangerous terrorists and criminals,” the statement concluded.

Authorities have urged residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to law enforcement agencies, emphasizing that public cooperation remains a critical pillar in preventing extremist violence and safeguarding national security.