Intelligence experts are warning Kenyans against spreading false terror alert messages which could cause tension and restlessness among citizens.
Terrorist could be using such messages to distract police and intelligence teams on their planned attacks in the country. Instead, Kenyans should be on the lookout of any suspicious activities or persons and only rely on messages from official sources.
Terror alerts have been used by young recruits to instill fear and cause disruption among civilians, say intelligence experts. These recruits are instructed to generate such messages and spread the same as a form of disruption while they (terrorists) plan major attacks.
In some cases, terrorist groups have used such propaganda to recruit and spread false messages of their existence and relevance.
The war against terrorism can only be fought if all parties are channeled towards the same goal. Any disruption could lead to a step-backwards in this war, say intelligence experts.
See also: Role of Media in War Against Terrorism
The media has also been warned against spreading militia groups’ propaganda or messages that could trigger fear among citizens.
Terror alerts are meant to help special police departments deter such attacks before they happen.
This call comes at a time when the government is working on strategies to establish a central Terrorism Public Alert System. This department is expected to communicate relevant messages for national preparation and planning against such attacks.
