Police post to be set up in Mombasa's Mapembeni area after tourist robbed

A police post is set to be established in the Mapembeni area following a recent robbery targeting tourists, Mombasa County authorities have announced.

Security officials stated that measures are being reinforced to curb criminal activities, particularly in areas frequented by both local and international visitors.

Mombasa County Commissioner Mohamed Noor confirmed the incident, which involved a tourist being robbed of their mobile phone on Monday.

However, he dismissed claims that the tourists were attacked by an armed gang. Instead, he clarified that the robbery was committed by a street boy, an incident currently under investigation.

"We have made arrests and are rounding up other suspects. Security measures are being strengthened across the coast to ensure the safety of both visitors and residents," Mohamed stated.

He assured visitors that Kenya remains a safe and welcoming destination, particularly as the Easter holidays approach.

Acting Mombasa County Police Commander Maxwell Agoro also confirmed that immediate action was taken following the report.

As a result, 127 street youths have been arrested and are facing various charges.

He further guaranteed heightened security, with increased police patrols both in urban centres and remote areas.

Intensify patrols

Tourism stakeholders in the coastal region have urged law enforcement agencies to intensify patrols, especially in central business districts, to curb rising cases of mugging and theft.

Speaking in Mombasa, members of the Kenya Coast Tourism Association (KCTA) raised concerns over the impact of insecurity on the tourism sector.

They warned that such incidents, if not addressed promptly, could tarnish the image of Kenya as a safe travel destination.

KCTA Chairman Victor Shitakha condemned what he termed as "sensationalised and misleading media reports" regarding the incident.

He emphasised that exaggerated narratives could harm the tourism industry, which contributes over 10% to Kenya’s GDP.

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• Police post to be set up in Mombasa's Mapembeni area after tourist robbed
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“We understand that crime is an issue in any major city, but misreporting and alarmist coverage can have lasting negative effects on our sector,” Shitakha said during a joint press briefing.

He was accompanied by representatives from the Kenya Association of Hotel Keepers and Caterers (KAHC) and the Kenya Association of Tour Operators (KATO), who also called for a balanced and responsible approach to reporting crime-related incidents.

Security authorities are working closely with tourism operators to ensure visitors’ safety. The planned police post in Mapembeni aims to provide a rapid response unit to deter crime and enhance security in the area, a popular tourist attraction.

Residents and business owners in Mapembeni have welcomed the initiative, citing the need for stronger security measures.

Local trader Mariam Juma expressed optimism, stating that the presence of a police post would reassure both locals and visitors.

“This is a step in the right direction. We have been worried about rising cases of crime, and the new security measures will help us feel safer,” she said.

With the Easter holiday season approaching, authorities have assured tourists of heightened security, urging them to continue enjoying Kenya’s coastal attractions without fear.