20 arrested in Malindi crackdown on criminal gangs and drug networks
The arrests are part of a broader security offensive across the coastal strip aimed at curbing violent crime, gang activity, and drug-related offences.
Police have arrested 20 people in Malindi during an operation targeting criminal gangs and drug networks in Soweto and Kasufini, Kilifi County.
The operation was led by the Malindi police station officer in charge and focused on individuals suspected of fuelling rising crime and drug trafficking in the coastal town.
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According to the National Police Service (NPS), all suspects are in custody and will be processed before appearing in court.
“The National Police Service remains committed to safeguarding lives and property and will continue to conduct intelligence-led operations to dismantle criminal networks,” the NPS said in a statement.
The arrests are part of a broader security offensive across the coastal strip aimed at curbing violent crime, gang activity, and drug-related offences.
In a separate incident on the same day, police in Mtwapa arrested a suspect in the Kasarani area of Mtwapa Township and recovered a variety of suspected stolen goods.
These included four grinders, seven drills, two rechargeable drills, three batteries, a handheld circular saw, thirteen assorted watches, and a gold-coated bracelet.
The Mtwapa suspect is also in custody and will face charges once investigations are complete.
“The NPS remains committed to pursuing offenders and ensuring stolen property is recovered and returned to its rightful owners,” the statement added.
Security agencies have recently stepped up patrols and intelligence operations in Kilifi and neighbouring counties in a bid to tackle organised crime and protect both residents and visitors.
Authorities say that for a region heavily dependent on beach tourism, sustained security measures are vital to maintaining business stability and attracting investors.
Even isolated security incidents can hurt the hospitality industry, with the potential to prompt travel advisories from countries such as the US and the UK.
Such warnings have in the past led to sharp drops in hotel occupancy rates, threatening the coast’s economic lifeline.
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