Security agencies in Garissa County have foiled a suspected terror attack after arresting a man and recovering an improvised explosive device (IED) along the Garissa–Dadaab Road.
The suspect was intercepted by a multi-agency security team during a routine patrol at Haji Aden area before attempting to flee into nearby bushes.
Police said the officers became suspicious after spotting the man acting nervously by the roadside.
Moments later, he allegedly took off into a thicket in a desperate attempt to evade arrest.
“A pursuit ensued, and the officers managed to apprehend the suspect after a short chase,” the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) said.
He was then taken back to the point where he had been standing before fleeing, where officers discovered an IED concealed in the area, believed to have been part of a planned attack.
“Upon returning to the scene, an Improvised Explosive Device was recovered, confirming suspicion of a possible terror-related mission,” the agency added.
Also recovered from the scene were military-style jungle clothing, including a jungle jacket and trousers, as well as two mobile phones, which detectives say could assist in ongoing investigations.
Security officials said the suspect was immediately escorted to Garissa Police Station for processing as detectives continue to widen investigations ahead of his arraignment in court.
“The suspect is in custody and is assisting us with investigations as we pursue possible accomplices and networks behind the incident,” it said.
Authorities praised the swift response by the patrol team, saying the incident highlights the importance of intelligence-led policing and rapid action in preventing potential attacks.
“This arrest demonstrates the effectiveness of multi-agency coordination in countering terrorism threats along vulnerable corridors,” a senior security official said.
Members of the public have been urged to remain vigilant and continue sharing timely information with security agencies to help prevent similar incidents and enhance community safety.
Security agencies reiterated their commitment to maintaining peace and stability in the region, especially along border and transit routes that have previously been identified as high-risk areas for extremist activity.
