Panic gripped passengers aboard a Nairobi-bound bus on Monday evening after police discovered a cache of explosives hidden in the luggage compartment during a routine security check at Mtito Andei.
The bus, belonging to a popular long-distance travel company, was flagged down by officers from the Anti-Terror Police Unit (ATPU) during a stopover inspection.According to authorities, the explosives were concealed in an unclaimed bag and included materials commonly used in improvised explosive devices (IEDs).
There was no name tag on the bag, and none of the passengers came forward to claim it. We are treating this as a serious security threat,” said Coast Regional Police Commander John Otieno.
The passengers, most of whom were headed to Mombasa for various personal and business reasons, were left shaken by the discovery. Many recounted the terrifying moments as officers surrounded the vehicle and cordoned off the area.
“I was just seated quietly when suddenly we were told to step out and move away from the bus. I was so scared when they said they found explosives,” said Fatma Ali, a passenger from Nairobi.
Bomb experts were quickly dispatched to the scene and safely detonated the explosives in a controlled operation. No injuries were reported.
Authorities have launched investigations to trace the source of the explosives and identify who placed them on the bus. Surveillance footage and passenger records are currently under review.
Police have also heightened security checks along major highways and at public transport hubs in both Nairobi and Mombasa.
“The safety of citizens remains our top priority. We urge travelers to remain vigilant and report any suspicious behavior or unclaimed luggage,” added Commander Otieno.
The incident has raised renewed concerns over the security of public transportation, especially amid growing threats posed by criminal and extremist groups.
By Kenyans