Companies

Nakumatt outlets to remain closed after Westgate attack

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Shoppers at Nakumatt Mega along Mombasa Road in Nairobi on March 3, 2013. The retail chain has ordered closure of all its outlets in Nairobi until Monday. FILE

Nakumatt Holdings has ordered closure of all its outlets in Nairobi until Monday following a terrorist attack at the Westgate Mall in Nairobi on Saturday, which left at least 59 people dead and hundreds injured.

"Following the unfortunate and tragic attack at the Westgate Mall, and as we continue to empathise with the families of the bereaved, injured and all Kenyans of goodwill at large, all Nakumatt branches in Nairobi will remain closed today," said Alfred Ng'ang'a, the retail chain spokesman.

Nakumatt said it was taking precaution and reacting as the situation on the Westgate mall unfolded. The retail chain on Saturday evening directed some of its branches to be closed for security concern.

"Nakumatt Holdings has taken a decision to close all Nairobi Central Business District branches. All Nairobi 24 hour will remain closed tonight," the retail chain said in a statement.

(READ: High-end shopping malls close following Westgate attack)

The Westgate attackers were reportedly hiding in Nakumatt Westgate outlet-the scene of crime after a standoff with the police early Sunday.

Some of the attackers had been pinned down by the police.

Al Shabab, a Somali terror group, claimed responsibility for the attack, saying the incident was in retaliation for Kenya’s security presence in the war torn Somali.