A suspected terror plot was disrupted in Garissa County after security agencies arrested a man and recovered an improvised explosive device (IED) along the busy Garissa–Dadaab road, authorities have confirmed.
According to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations, the suspect identified as Hussein Issa Baraki was apprehended following a swift operation by a multi-agency security team on routine patrol in the Haji Aden area.
Officers reportedly became suspicious after spotting the suspect loitering by the roadside. Upon noticing the approaching security team, Baraki fled into a nearby bush, triggering a pursuit through dense vegetation.
He was eventually cornered and arrested after a brief chase.
“The suspect raised suspicion after officers on routine patrol spotted him by the roadside. The moment he noticed the approaching security team, he took off into a nearby bush in a desperate bid to escape,” the DCI stated.
Security officers later escorted the suspect back to the location where he had initially been seen. It was there that they discovered an IED, raising concerns that a planned attack may have been imminent.
The recovery of the device is being treated as a significant breakthrough in preventing potential harm.
“What followed was a chase through the thickets before the officers finally cornered and arrested him. The suspect was taken back to the exact location where he had been standing before fleeing, where officers discovered an IED,” the agency added.
In addition to the explosive device, officers recovered military-style jungle attire, including a jacket and trousers, as well as two mobile phones believed to be crucial to ongoing investigations. The items have been secured as exhibits.
“Also recovered at the scene was a military-style jungle attire, including a jungle jacket and trousers, as well as two mobile phones,” the statement noted.
The suspect was taken to Garissa Police Station, where he is currently being processed as detectives widen investigations.
Authorities indicated that efforts are underway to establish possible links to extremist networks and determine whether the suspect was acting alone or as part of a coordinated operation.
“The suspect was escorted to Garissa Police Station for processing as detectives widen investigations ahead of his arraignment,” the DCI confirmed.
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations said the incident underscores the continued threat posed by terrorism, particularly in regions near Kenya’s northeastern border.
“This case reaffirms security agencies’ commitment in the fight against terrorism and violent extremism. Members of the public are urged to continue sharing timely information that can help thwart criminal activities and keep communities safe,” the agency said.