Blame game as Diani residents unite with businesses to combat rising crime

Before joining hands to counter the suspected criminals, the residents and the authorities were embroiled in a blame game.

Locals accused the police of failing to offer security in neighbourhoods such as Ukunda, Kona Musa, Ibiza, Bongwe, and Beach Road, where they struggle to manage their businesses amid growing fear.

Omari Mwinyi, a local in Bongwe, alleged that despite reporting the crime incidents to the police, no action was taken.

"People are getting mugged in broad daylight, yet we have police in the region. When we get mugged, we report to the police, but nothing much is done," lamented Omari.

He said the residents have joined forces with the businesspeople in the region to tackle the escalating crime wave.

Residents lynched at least four suspected criminals in recent weeks, with the most recent incident witnessed at Mvindeni in Msambweni sub-county on Tuesday last week.

The locals have vowed to continue their vigilante actions if the situation does not improve.

"We have no choice but to protect ourselves," stated Aisha Juma, a resident of Ukunda.

"If the authorities won't act, we must," she said.

Another resident, a local hardware store owner, claimed that police react slowly to crime alerts.

Msambweni OCPD Francis Gachoki at his office in Ukunda. (Photo: Mishi Gongo)

"We are desperate; my hardware was broken into last week. I called the police when I discovered the burglary, but they never arrived. If they had come, I might have avoided the losses I incurred," he said.

Asked why they do not present themselves in court to testify against suspects, Aisha said they fear attacks and victimisation from the suspects' friends and family.

"The suspects are individuals we live with. When we testify, the parents start victimising the witnesses for sending their children to jail.

Msambweni OCPD Francis Gachoki acknowledged the difficulties the police encounter in maintaining order. He explained that while they are working tirelessly to ensure security, a significant issue is the lack of local cooperation in court.

Gachoki added that the fear of retribution from the suspects' associates has deterred many from participating in the judicial process.

"We cannot be held responsible for the failures in the judicial system when there are no witnesses to provide testimony," he explained.

The OCPD also blamed the parents of the suspects for bailing them out despite knowing that they were criminals. The situation has also raised concerns among local business owners, who fear that the escalating crime could jeopardise their enterprises.

In October, Diani, in Msambweni Sub-County will host two significant events, including Mashujaa Day and celebrations to determine the world's best tourism destination.

Business owners worry that ongoing crime could deter tourists and undermine their livelihoods.

"If the crime rate continues to rise, it will affect our business severely. Tourists won't feel safe walking around, and if that happens, who will come to buy from us," said Peter Otieno, a local shopkeeper.