US embassy in Kenya closed to public after shooting incident

The United States embassy in Kenya, will be closed to the public today (October 28) following a shooting incident on Thursday. A man was shot in the head as he tried to force his way into the embassy.

‘‘The Embassy will be closed to the public on October 28. While routine consular services have been cancelled, emergency consular services for U.S. citizens continue to be available.

‘‘Review your personal security plans, remain aware of your surroundings, including local events, and monitor local news stations for updates. Be vigilant and take appropriate steps to enhance your personal security,’‘ the Embassy said in a statement.

US Embassy in Kenya closed after a man was gunned down outside the precinct. The man had stabbed a Kenyan police officer on duty.

— Robert K'odingo (@Kodingo_) October 28, 2016

Police confirmed that the deceased was a 24-year-old Kenyan man. He was shot dead after he stabbed a General Service Unit (GSU) officer, before another officer shot him in the head.

The suspect was trying to forcibly gain entry into the embassy’s visa section when he was blocked by the Kenyan officer at the gate.

US Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) officers were dispatched to the scene of the shooting, along with about a dozen Kenyan officers. Kenyan police spokesman George Kinoti described the man as a “lone criminal”, but said investigations were continuing.

Picture credit: Kenya’s Daily Nation portal