DCI launches probe into rise of juvenile gangs in Nairobi's Umoja estate, environs
The move follows a viral clip shared on social media showing a group of boys engaged in violent clashes, which seriously injured one 15-year-old Joshua Kubiti, who succumbed while receiving treatment at Radiant Hospital
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has kicked off a probe into a suspected rise in juvenile gangs in Nairobi's Umoja estate and its environs.
In a statement, the Directorate on Wednesday said the move follows a viral clip shared on social media showing a group of boys engaged in violent clashes, which seriously injured one 15-year-old Joshua Kubiti, who succumbed while receiving treatment at Radiant Hospital in the same neighbourhood.
More To Read
- 'Muthaiga 3' activists set free after High Court rejects case extension request
- MPs fault top state agencies over weak accountability, stalled reforms
- Nairobi lawyer arrested over Sh79.9 million gold scam targeting Canadian investor
- DCI seeks 21 days to detain Obamana matatu sacco touts over stabbing to death of colleague
- DCI launches multi-agency operation in Maai Mahiu after BBC exposé on child sex trafficking
- DCI granted 21 days to analyse electronic devices in Koimburi abduction case
According to the DCI, preliminary investigations have established that the boys, aged between 12 and 19, have formed rival groups under names such as Chinje, Mbogi, Bad Bunny, and Silent, among others which have been linked to violent confrontations, phone snatching, and theft in Tena, Innercore, Umoja I, II & III, Kayole, Kariobangi, and neighbouring areas.
"In a targeted crackdown led by Buruburu detectives, 14 juveniles (10 male, four female) were arrested and presented before the Makadara Law Courts, where detectives were granted custodial orders to facilitate thorough investigations into the murder of Joshua Kubiti and ensure the perpetrators are held accountable and justice is served," said the DCI.
The gangs have been recording some of their violent activities and threats on TikTok, some seen by The Eastleigh Voice insulting rivals and issuing threats to attack them.
Police said recruitment to the gangs the dire torate said often takes place during school holidays, thus exposing more youths to crime.
"A sustained crackdown against juvenile gangs and other criminal elements in Nairobi and across the country remains ongoing," the DCI assured Kenyans while maintaining its commitment to ensure Law and order in the country.
Top Stories Today
