Secret Logistics Network Fueling Al-Shabaab Disrupted in Nairobi

NAIROBI, Kenya — Kenyan security agencies say they have broken up part of a suspected cross-border terror logistics network after uncovering dozens of bales of militant combat uniforms concealed in Nairobi’s Eastleigh neighborhood, in a night operation that has widened an already regional investigation.

The intelligence-driven raid took place near the KBS Garage area and was led by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) and the Anti-Terrorism Police Unit (ATPU), working with other agencies. Investigators believe the seized shipment was intended for Al-Shabaab, the militant group active in Somalia and the wider Horn of Africa.

The operation stems from an April 6 interception in Dhobley, Somalia, where Jubaland Security Forces recovered 25 bales of similar camouflage clothing. Detectives traced that consignment to a suspect identified as Abdi Hakim, who is being held in Somalia, and then followed the paper trail and cargo links back to Nairobi.

Using that lead, officers moved on Gaani Parcel Express along 12th Street in Eastleigh, where they found 11 bales. Each bale contained 60 full camouflage uniforms and 120 T-shirts. A further bale was recovered at Vision Point Express, another nearby facility, after the items were reportedly shifted there because the first location lacked enough storage space.

Authorities have arrested the manager of the first parcel outlet, Omar Elmi Issack, who is alleged to have arranged the temporary storage after receiving the goods from an individual identified as Sharif.

The investigation has also reached Safe Link Cargo, a company operating from Soma Towers. Detectives suspect the firm helped bring in 37 bales of the uniforms from China. According to investigators, the cargo entered Kenya through the Port of Mombasa concealed as consolidated commercial freight.

One employee, Abdiftah Aden Muhammed, is under scrutiny for allegedly overseeing the clearance and movement of the shipment. Records show the cargo was collected on April 4 and later sent to Eastleigh.

“This operation marks a significant win in disrupting terror logistics before they could translate into real-world attacks,” a spokesperson for the security agencies said.

Several suspects remain in ATPU custody as investigators widen their inquiry into what they say is a broader network connecting operatives in China, Kenya, and Somalia. All recovered materials have been secured as evidence.

AXADLETM