'No Africans' Chinese Restaurant in Kenya Bans Black Diners

A Chinese restaurant in Kenya's capital Nairobi shuts its doors on Africans after dark. Reason: It views locals as terrorists affiliated to outlawed organizations, including the notorious Al-Shabaab.

Quoting local media reports, The Washington Post reported that the restaurant, named 'Chinese Restaurant', does not permit Africans after hours unless they are accompanied by Indian, European or Chinese patrons. While some known and regular visitors may be allowed, others have to shell out more than $ 200 for an entry. Even prominent people in Nairobi have reportedly been denied access.

"We don't admit Africans that we don't know because you never know who is Al-Shabaab and who isn't. It is not like it is written on somebody's face that they are a thug armed with a gun," Esther Zhao, the restaurant's relations manager reportedly told The Daily Nation. She further said that the Chinese embassy has asked all establishments to remain vigilant to ensure the safety of Chinese people in the city.

The restaurant decided on its policy last year after armed gunmen posing as patrons, looted the eatery.

News of the restaurant's policy caused outrage in the city, with authorities arresting the restaurant's owner Zhao Yang, for operating a restaurant without licence. Human rights activist decried the move, calling it racial and ethnic profiling, liable for penalty under Kenyan law.