Intensifies action against street robberies in Nairobi, according to Murkomen's orders
In a bid to combat the rising cases of muggings in Nairobi's Central Business District, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has called on the Kenya Police Service and the Administration Police Service to intensify operations against criminal gangs.
Murkomen made these remarks during a Jukwaa la Usalama forum in Bungoma on Thursday. He emphasised that policing everyday crimes such as theft and muggings is the direct responsibility of the officers.
The surge in attacks, according to Murkomen, has been terrorising Nairobians in certain spots within the Central Business District. Some of the hot spots for muggings, as reported by victims, include National Archives, Kenyatta, Moi Avenue and Mama Ngina junction, Railways-Moi Avenue junction, sections of River-Road and Landhies road, Parliament Road, and areas like Kimathi and Biashara Street.
Some of the gangs involved in the muggings appear to be posing as street children, but investigations have revealed that many are adults armed with knives and working in coordinated groups. Other victims reported that some gangs ambush them along Parliament Road and that some areas like Kimathi and Biashara Street are not lit enough, allowing gangs to hide on dark alleys.
In response, the government has taken note of the surge in attacks, and a major operation was conducted on Wednesday to flush out the gangs in the city center and some downtown areas. More than ten suspects were arrested in the operation, and the operation will continue until all suspects are apprehended.
The ongoing operation targets alleys in poorly lit areas around bus stages known for mobile phone snatching and deserted areas where the muggings have been occurring. Central Sub-County police Commander Phillemon Nyakombo stated that the National Police Service has intensified operations around the CBD.
Murkomen warned that underage status would not shield offenders from the law, insisting that anyone involved in violent robberies would face prosecution regardless of age. He also reminded the officers that their duty is to protect the citizens and uphold law and order.
At the time of writing, no information was provided about The Standard channel on WhatsApp. However, as the situation develops, updates will be shared through the appropriate channels. The public is urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the nearest police station.
