Diani, a popular tourist destination in Kwale County, is reeling from a surge of violent attacks perpetrated by a juvenile gang known as the ‘Panga Boys.’ The gang has been striking at random, targeting both residents and visitors, leaving behind a trail of terror and bloodshed.
In recent days, multiple incidents have been reported, with victims suffering severe injuries, and some even losing their lives. The gang operates indiscriminately, attacking people in broad daylight and robbing them of their valuables. Businesses along Diani Beach Road have been forced to shut down due to fear of attacks.
On Saturday, chaos erupted when panga-wielding youths stormed the town, attacking anyone in sight. The violence escalated following the burial of a 29-year-old man who had been stabbed to death the previous day. According to Msambweni subcounty police commander Ahmed Hillow, the youth launched retaliatory attacks after the burial, indiscriminately assaulting innocent people.
In response, police fired in the air to disperse the gang and arrested several suspects. Security has since been reinforced in both Ukunda and Diani, with a multi-agency operation involving officers from the General Service Unit, National Intelligence Service, Administration Police, and other law enforcement agencies.
Among the victims of Saturday’s attack was Brivian Simiyu, a journalist who was ambushed near Cooperative Bank in Ukunda, a short distance from the Diani police station. Simiyu recounted the harrowing ordeal, explaining how six gang members attacked him with pangas and blunt weapons.
“I was attacked by six youths who had pangas and blunt weapons,” he said. “One of them aimed a panga at my head, but I dodged, and it cut through my left ear.”
Simiyu fell to the ground as the gang continued beating him while robbing him of his phone, money, and other valuables. Despite his cries for help, bystanders were too terrified to intervene.
Police have urged residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities as they continue to track down the gang members. Authorities are also calling for community cooperation to help restore peace in the town.
