Mombasa: The Coast Regional Police Commander, Ali Nuno, has directed local police officers to address the issue of machete-wielding criminals who have been causing unrest in Mombasa and Kilifi counties.
According to Kenya News Agency, this directive comes in response to a resurgence of violent gangs, some of whom were captured on CCTV robbing and injuring residents in these coastal regions. Nuno reassured the public of heightened security measures while warning the youth against engaging in criminal activities, emphasizing that law enforcement will eventually apprehend them.
Nuno stated that individuals involved in criminal activities have two choices: to desist and change or to leave the coastal area entirely. He warned the criminals that their actions will no longer be tolerated and that the police are committed to restoring order.
The public has been cautioned against circulating false alarms through videos, as this could impede investigations and allow suspects to evade capture. Despite some criminals
remaining at large, Nuno assured the community that all available government resources will be utilized to ensure their safety.
Nuno highlighted a recent incident on January 28, where a night guard was injured along Biashara Street in Mombasa. The criminals, captured on CCTV, stole his mobile phone and later committed further robberies in Mtwapa, Kilifi County, injuring an 18-year-old shop attendant in the process.
Police efforts, supported by CCTV evidence, led to the identification and arrest of several suspects, including Mustafa Juma, Bubbline Kazungu, and Abdul Matano, at a hideout in Vipingo. A search uncovered multiple stolen items and weapons. Further investigations led to the arrest of additional accomplices, Swale Mwarauka, Mohammed Juma, and Hamisi Rama, and the discovery of drugs and cash believed to be connected to their criminal activities.
The arrested individuals were taken to Mtwapa police station and are facing legal proceedings, with detectives granted a 14-day period to complete investi
gations. Local residents, including shop owner Kimathi Nicholas and resident Dickson Kamlesh, praised the police for their swift action and called for increased night patrols to ensure ongoing security in the area.
