Inspector General Japhet Koome has taken action against Makadara Subcounty Commander over a letter stating that terror group al Shabaab was planning attacks in some areas within Nairobi.

According to Koome, the officer had not been authorised to distribute the letter warning of a potential attack.

"In tandem with the communication procedure within the National Police Service, we wish to clarify that the letter has neither originated from the Office of the Inspector General, nor has the undersigned officer received any instructions in accordance with the chain of command, to author or disseminate the letter," the IG said.

"As a deterrence measure, administrative action has been taken against the concerned officer."

In a letter, Makadara sub-county police commander Timon Odingo had called for increased surveillance in these high-target areas.

He listed marked areas believed to be targeted by al-Shabaab militants for possible attacks this festive season.

Some of the areas stated include; the Presbyterian Guest House and Conference Centre in South C, Our Lady Queen of Peace Catholic Church in South B, Nairobi West Mall, Capital Centre, Garden City and T-Mall.

"The group may also be targeting other guest houses and conference centres owned by churches as well as Christmas and New Year's eve celebrations," the letter said.

The attacks according to police are to disrupt the Christmas festivities.