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27 suspected criminal gang members arrested in Mombasa security operation

Ian Henry Otieno's family said he was sifting through mounds of rubble at the scene to recover any possessions that were spared the destruction.(Photo: EV)

By Farhiya Hussein | 25 Apr 2024

The arrests follow an ongoing multi-agency crackdown operation to eliminate criminal gangs in the coastal city.

Twenty-seven suspected members of a criminal gang have been arrested in Mombasa.

The arrests follow an ongoing multi-agency crackdown operation to eliminate criminal gangs in the coastal city.

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Confirming the arrest, Mombasa County Commissioner Mohamed Nur said this is the third week since they launched the operation which started during the Ramadan period.

“Between 2030 hrs and 2300hrs on Wednesday, a multi-agency team composed of National Government Administration Officers (NGAO) and National Police Service (NPS) officers conducted a crackdown on criminal activities' hideouts within the Mtopanga area. In the operation 27 suspects were arrested, 1kg of bhang seized and one motorbike confiscated," Mohamed said.

Part of the bhang that was seized during the security operation in Mombasa on April 24, 2024.

"The rider who was on our wanted list managed to flee leaving the motorbike behind,” he said.

The suspects were booked in various police stations in Mombasa.

Eleven were booked in Mjambere, nine in Kiembeni and seven in Concordia as they await processing before being charged.

The county commissioner noted that the operation will continue on Thursday.

Earlier on Wednesday, another 150 suspects were arrested including 10 who were reported to be suspects of juvenile gangs.

The suspects are said to be part of those terrorising residents in Mombasa.

The arrested individuals are scheduled to appear in court on Thursday.