Briton Killed, Wife Kidnapped In Kenya

The Foreign Office says it is working to secure the release of a kidnapped British tourist whose husband was murdered during a robbery at a luxury Kenyan beach resort favoured by celebrities.

The incident happened overnight at the remote Kiwayu Safari Village resort, close to Somalia, where artist Tracey Emin and actress Imelda Staunton have stayed.

Rolling Stone Sir Mick Jagger is also reported to have been a guest.

There are suspicions the armed gang responsible were from Somalia and may have used a speedboat to get away from the isolated island resort.

A Foreign Office spokesman said: "We can confirm that two British citizens were attacked overnight at a beach resort north of Lamu, near the Kenya-Somalia border.

"One was killed and another kidnapped. We are working closely with the Kenyan authorities to establish further details.

"We have deployed a consular team from our High Commission in Nairobi and are
offering all possible support to the family of those involved."

The spokesman added: "We are working to secure the safe and swift release of the British national... and ask those involved to show compassion and release (her) immediately."

According to reports, the attackers broke into the couple's accommodation at the resort, which consists of 18 luxury cottages spread along a private beach.

Advice posted on the Foreign Office website advised travellers against going within 30 miles of the Kenya-Somalia border.

It stated: "There have been previous attacks by Somali militia into Kenya.

"Three aid workers were kidnapped in July 2009, and two Western nuns in November 2008."

Kiwayu Safari Village consists of 18 luxury cottages spread along a private beach.

On its website, the resort says: "Kiwayu Safari Village takes your security and safety very seriously.

"We have our own organic security protocols as well as a professional security structure which provides us with overarching security and safety 24 hours a day."

It adds: "Our relationship with the local community, its fishermen and the local authorities is positive and mutually beneficial.

"We regularly review our security and safety to ensure it is both comprehensive and current."