Kenya braces for possible terrorist attacks

Since January, members of the Guardia’s Rapid Action Group (RAG) have been collaborating with the Kenyan security forces in the preparation of two exercises, one theoretical Table Top and the other practical LIVEX; a simulation in which units of the security forces that must be involved in the immediate reaction to a terrorist attack in a public space have participated. These activities were carried out within the framework of the European project CT Public Spaces.

This type of simulation, which has also been carried out in Senegal and will soon be carried out in Ghana, is divided into two phases: a table-top exercise, known as Table Top, and another with the intervention of police units and extras who recreate risk situations, known as LIVEX. The objective, in both phases, is to put into practice the tactics, techniques and procedures that have been worked on in the different exchanges, which include command and control, risk analysis, prevention, protection and reaction to terrorist attacks in public spaces.

In the case of Kenya, the “Village Market” shopping centre served as the location for the practical exercise. The exercise simulated a series of incidents and a terrorist attack with hostages, with the immediate response involving personnel from the National Counter Terrorism Centre and the Kenya National Police. These exercises are being conducted in Ghana, Kenya and Senegal to strengthen capabilities for the prevention and mitigation of potential terrorist attacks in public spaces.

The event was attended by officials from the Ministry of Interior and the Director of the Kenya Counter Terrorism Centre, as well as the Ambassadors of Spain and Slovakia and the Head of the EU Delegation in Kenya, as well as other members of the European Commission, the European External Action Service and members of other European diplomatic representations.