Eight suspected gang members arrested in Malindi crackdown
The arrests mark the latest step in an intensified campaign against organised crime in Kilifi County.
Police in Malindi have arrested eight people believed to be part of a criminal gang that has been instilling fear among residents in the coastal town.
According to security officials, the suspects were apprehended during an intelligence-driven operation mounted by officers from Malindi Police Station under the leadership of the Officer Commanding Station (OCS).
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The arrests mark the latest step in an intensified campaign against organised crime in Kilifi County.
The crackdown began after police cornered one individual linked to the gang. Interrogation of the suspect guided officers to the Nat and Kwa Famau areas in Maweni, where seven more suspects were flushed out. Authorities say the group is associated with “Team Nati Dread”, a gang accused by locals of a spate of violent robberies and attacks in the area.
Some of the items recovered by police during the arrest of suspects believed to be gang members terrorizing Malindi residents. (DCI)
During the swoop, police recovered crude weapons, including three machetes, two mobile phones, and jewellery believed to have been stolen from victims.
All the suspects are currently being held in custody pending arraignment, where they are expected to face robbery and related charges.
Police have urged the public to remain vigilant, assuring that more operations will be carried out to rid Malindi of criminal networks.
“We are committed to protecting lives and property. Our operations will continue until such gangs are dismantled and justice is served,” said one officer involved in the exercise.
Gang activity has been a recurring concern in parts of the Coast region, with residents often reporting cases of violent muggings, burglary, and extortion.
Previously, groups such as Wakali Kwanza, Wakali Wao, and other youth gangs have caused unrest in Mombasa, Kilifi, and Kwale counties.
Authorities say these gangs prey on unemployed young people, luring them into crime with promises of quick money and notoriety.
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