In a major counter-terrorism operation, Interpol and Afripol detained 37 suspected terrorists in East Africa. The operation targeted ISIS, al-Shabaab, and several foreign terrorist fighters.
The arrests took place in eight countries, with notable operations in Kenya, Democratic Republic of Congo, Somalia, Tanzania, and Uganda. Authorities seized weapons, including small arms, heavy artillery, and explosives.
Kenya led the effort with 17 arrests, including two ISIS suspects. Among them were individuals linked to terrorism financing, radicalization, and propaganda.
In Congo, four members of the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), an ISIS-affiliated group, were detained. Authorities also destroyed a missile and anti-tank device left behind by the terrorists.
Somalia’s forces arrested three people, including a bombmaker tied to al-Shabaab. This group, known for its attacks against the Somali government, intensified operations following President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s declaration of an “all-out war.”
Tanzania’s authorities apprehended a suspected ISIS member from Mozambique, while Uganda arrested an individual attempting to join the terrorist group in Mozambique.
Before the operation, countries involved prepared strategic plans. Intelligence on terror targets, including locations and individuals, was consolidated and analyzed by Interpol and Afripol. Officers provided coordination, logistical support, and real-time data during tactical operations.
This successful operation demonstrates the vital collaboration among African and international law enforcement agencies in the ongoing fight against terrorism in East Africa.
