Police in Kwale County have arrested 120 suspects linked to the notorious machete-wielding gang known as “Panga Boys.” The suspects were apprehended during a week-long security operation aimed at curbing rising criminal activities in Diani and its surrounding areas.
According to Msambweni Sub-County Police Commander Robinson Lang’at, 63 of the suspects have already been arraigned in court. Law enforcement officers have also filed a miscellaneous application to detain 33 others for an additional 14 days as investigations continue. Another 16 suspects are set to appear in court on Monday.
The crackdown also led to the recovery of seven machetes, which police believe were used in criminal activities, along with 18 rolls of bhang and multiple mobile phones. Authorities suspect that the gang has been using these weapons to intimidate and rob residents and tourists in the popular coastal town.
Lang’at assured residents that the security operation would continue until the gang is completely dismantled. He emphasized that the police are working closely with the local community to identify and root out members of the criminal network.
“We will not relent in our efforts to rid the county of criminal elements. We urge the public to cooperate with law enforcement by providing information that could help in the arrest of more gang members,” Lang’at stated.
In addition to targeting the gang, security measures have been heightened ahead of the Eid-ul-Fitr celebrations. Authorities have advised beach operators to vacate the shores by 6 p.m. as part of the effort to maintain law and order.
Residents of Diani, a major tourist hub, have long raised concerns about the increasing insecurity posed by armed gangs. The latest operation has been welcomed by the community, with many expressing relief that action is being taken against the criminal elements disrupting the region’s peace and economic activities.
Police have assured that surveillance will be maintained in hotspot areas, and further arrests are expected in the coming days. The government remains committed to ensuring that Diani remains a safe destination for both locals and tourists.
