A consortium of researchers dedicated to improving the understanding of the human causes and consequences of terrorism

Al-Shabaab Attack on Westgate Mall in Kenya

On Saturday, Sept. 21, gunmen attacked Westgate Mall in Nairobi, Kenya. After a four-day standoff, Kenyan officials indicated that the site of the attack was secured by armed forces on Tuesday evening, Sept. 24. Media sources report that Somali militant organization al-Shabaab has claimed responsibility for the attack, and that the attack has resulted in hundreds of casualties, including more than 60 deaths as of Sept. 25. START has developed this background report highlighting:

  • Attacks attributed to al-Shabaab,
  • Terrorism in Kenya, and
  • extended attacks involving hostages in barricade situations.

Download START's background report on the Al-Shabaab attack on Westgate Mall in Kenya.