Malindi police arrest 350 juvenile gang members in crackdown
The gangs had turned to social media to intimidate residents and tourists, urging politicians to back the operation through genuine political goodwill.
Police in Malindi, Kilifi County, have reported major strides in the fight against juvenile gangs after arresting more than 350 suspected members of the group known locally as Maoza.
Malindi Sub-County Police Commander, Moses Kosgei, confirmed that the suspects, some as young as 12, were apprehended in a series of operations carried out over the past month. The crackdown, which involved close collaboration with residents, has also seen several suspects taken to court.
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Kosgei praised members of the public for sharing information that aided security officers, stressing that community cooperation was central to the success of the ongoing operation.
“Over 350 suspects have been detained since we began the crackdown, including minors, with a number already facing charges in court. I appreciate the residents who have come forward to report these gangs,” he said.
The police boss, however, condemned some parents for shielding offenders, warning that those aiding criminal activity would not evade the law. He further revealed that the gangs had turned to social media to intimidate residents and tourists, urging politicians to back the operation through genuine political goodwill.
Kilifi Governor Gideon Mung’aro voiced concern that escalating insecurity could harm the region’s tourism sector. He announced that the county would roll out job opportunities for young people, including Kazi Mtaani and street clean-up initiatives, to provide alternatives to crime.
“As a community, we must act. I have already begun enrolling youth in the Kazi Mtaani programme to keep them engaged. I also urge business owners to install security lights outside their premises to make our town and estates safer,” Governor Mung’aro said.
Malindi MP Amina Mnyazi criticised parents and guardians for rushing to bail out children linked to the gangs, saying this undermined the war on crime.
“Parents are quick to defend children arrested for attacking and robbing locals. If this continues, they should not accuse the government when tough measures are taken,” MP Amina warned.
She stressed that security begins at home, pointing out that Watamu had remained relatively peaceful because parents there work closely with security agencies. The legislator also called for tougher policing, insisting that the 350 arrests were only a drop in the ocean compared with the number of criminals still active.
Amina pressed the judiciary to reconsider lenient bond terms, arguing that suspects with financial resources often walk free and resume preying on residents.
Police reports indicate the gangs have been using crude weapons such as pangas and machetes to rob and assault civilians, both in daylight and at night. Items recovered from suspects include stolen mobile phones, laptops and other personal valuables.
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