Terrorist attack in Nairobi: several Europeans among the victims

(BRUSSELS2) A dozen Europeans are among the hostages killed during the attack on the Westgate shopping center in Nairobi by Somali shebabs. THE foreign office confirmed the deaths of 6 British nationals. 2 French people were killed (the mother and her daughter) in the shopping center parking lot. 1 Dutch woman aged 33 (residing in Tanzania) was killed (7 other nationals are safe and sound according to the embassy there).

Balance sheet which could increase

The official toll is 67 killed (61 civilians and 6 security forces) and about 200 injured while the shebabs announced a toll of 137 killed. The Kenyan army thus lost 3 soldiers in what must be called a real battle; 8 others were injured. 5 assailants were also killed. But according to the Kenyan Red Cross, there are still 64 people who have not been heard from. The initial balance sheet of the Kenyan authorities could therefore increase rapidly

Terrorist attack

The terrorist attack - in the literal sense of the word "sowing terror" - was condemned from all sides. The High Representative of the EU, like the Presidents of the European Commission and of the European Council expressed their condolences to the victims. Catherine Ashton insisted in a press release to affirm to the Kenyan authorities, “ full support to the Kenyan authorities to deal with (and put an end to) this situation”. « We are prepared to do all we can to help prevent such attacks from occurring in the future. she added. This subject could quickly be put back on the agenda, at least in the working groups, at a time when the "terrorism" alert is at almost the highest level, particularly in Belgium.

American, Israeli and British scientific experts have come to reinforce their Kenyan colleagues - according to the Kenyan press - Their mission: to identify the bodies but also to determine the number and identity of the attackers.

Humanitarian aid

Aid of 25.000 euros has been released as European humanitarian aid for the Kenyan Red Cross. " She did an excellent job, with first aid, ambulances and funeral services, locating and reuniting family members who had become lost and providing them with psychological support. said Kristalina Georgieva, European Commissioner for Humanitarian Aid.