Police bosses in Mombasa, Kwale intensify efforts on curbing rising youth crime
During the meeting, over 100 youths surrendered to authorities, seeking help to leave their criminal lives behind.
Security authorities in Mombasa and Kwale counties have intensified efforts to curb a surge in violent attacks linked to juvenile gangs.
Led by Coast Regional Police Commander Ali Nuno, senior police officers held security meetings in Likoni and Ukunda, responding to increasing concerns from residents and business owners.
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In Likoni, community leaders expressed frustration over the growing number of underage criminals terrorising locals.
Parents and activists blamed economic hardships and a lack of proper guidance as key factors pushing minors into crime.
Shamsa Aboubakar, a long-time activist working with reforming youths, urged parents to take greater responsibility for their children’s actions.
“Unemployment is not an excuse for a 14-year-old to carry a machete and rob innocent people. These children need mentorship and discipline at home before we blame external factors,” she said.
Some former gang members who attended the meeting and have since reformed claim they still face discrimination and harassment from law enforcement.
Mombasa County Commissioner Mahmoud Noor during a security baraza in Likoni, Mombasa County. (Photo: Farhiya Hussein)
They allege that despite leaving crime behind, they remain prime suspects whenever a crime occurs.
“We are trying to change, but police officers still target us. Whenever something happens, we are the first to be arrested,” one young man said.
During the meeting, over 100 youths surrendered to authorities, seeking help to leave their criminal lives behind.
Mombasa Deputy Governor Francis Thoya, who was in attendance, urged county officials to create sustainable programmes to engage the youth positively.
Politicians blamed
Nominated Senator Miraj Abdillahi, however, placed the blame on politicians, accusing some of funding criminal gangs for their own interests.
“We know those who protect these criminals. It is time leaders stopped bailing out gang members from police cells and instead supported security operations,” she said.
In Ukunda, Msambweni constituency, businesses have suffered due to persistent attacks by armed youth gangs.
Residents have called for immediate action, with many living in fear of evening robberies.
Local youths during a security baraza in Likoni, Mombasa County. (Photo: Farhiya Hussein)
Coast Regional Police Commander Ali Nuno assured residents that the security situation would improve, warning that parents of minors involved in crime would also face legal action.
“We have been lenient for too long. If your child is arrested for criminal activities, you will be held accountable for negligence,” he warned.
Nuno also put local police officers on notice, saying those who failed to control crime would be disciplined.
During a separate meeting with the Ukunda business community, Nuno reassured traders of heightened security measures, promising increased patrols and intelligence operations to dismantle gangs.
“We will not allow criminals to dictate how people live and work,” he stated.
Msambweni MP Salim Feisal echoed these sentiments, urging parents to take charge of their children’s discipline before law enforcement stepped in.
“Some parents have left their children to be raised on the streets. We must change that before it is too late,” he said.
Kwale County Commissioner Stephen Orinde encouraged residents to provide information to authorities, assuring them of witness protection.
“If we want justice, we need witnesses to come forward and testify. Your safety will be guaranteed,” he stated.
Authorities later confirmed that 47 youths had been arrested in connection with recent attacks in Likoni and Ukunda. They remain in police custody as investigations continue.
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