Australian Government condemns Nairobi shopping mall attack

Media release

22 September 2013

Foreign Minister Julie Bishop has today condemned the terrorist attack on civilians at a shopping mall in Nairobi, Kenya in which at least 39 people have been killed.

The Australian Government condemns this senseless attack on innocent civilians.

The Kenyan President has confirmed that 150 people have been injured, and that operations are ongoing against a heavily armed group that is holding an unknown number of hostages in the mall.

Ms Bishop has expressed her sympathy to the Kenyan people and to President Kenyatta who has lost family members in this incident.

She also joined Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper in honouring the two Canadian nationals that have been killed during the attack, including one diplomat.

The thoughts of all Australians are with the victims and their families.

At this stage no Australians have been identified among those dead or injured.

The Australian Embassy in Nairobi is urgently liaising with local authorities to determine whether Australians have been affected.

The DFAT Travel advisory for Kenya has been reissued and it warns Australians to exercise a high degree of caution and to keep clear of the Westgate mall area in Nairobi, and to follow the instructions of local authorities. The advisory also highlights reports that terrorist groups are continuing to plan attacks in Kenya in places frequented by westerners including in Nairobi and surrounding areas, and in Mombasa.

Anyone with concerns about family or friends in Kenya should first attempt to contact them directly if unsuccessful, contact the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade in Canberra's 24 hour Consular Emergency Centre on +6126261 3305 from overseas or within Australia on 1300 555 135.