The Kenyan government has intensified efforts to curb rising criminal activities in Kwale County, leading to the transfer of two senior police officers. Msambweni Sub-County Police boss Ahmed Hillow and Diani Officer Commanding Station (OCS) Zachary Mose were moved on Monday as part of an ongoing crackdown on the criminal gang known as Panga Boys.
The shake-up follows a series of violent attacks in which gang members, armed with machetes, targeted residents, injuring some and robbing others. To address the escalating insecurity, new police commanders have been deployed to the region with strict instructions to dismantle the gang.
Coast Regional Police Commander Ali Nuno has taken a proactive approach, spending significant time in the area engaging with local leaders and residents. He emphasized the importance of community cooperation in eradicating crime and has initiated a series of meetings with elders and youths to foster collaboration between law enforcement and the community.
“This is our problem, and we must address it. We cannot continue living in fear of a criminal gang that we know,” said Nuno.
The crackdown has already seen about 100 young men surrender to the authorities, pledging to abandon criminal activities. Many cited unemployment as the driving force behind their actions. In response, the Kwale County government has promised to integrate some of the surrendered individuals into development programs to provide them with alternative livelihoods.
Nuno attributed the rise in crime to poor parenting, stressing the need for responsible guardianship. “Spare the rod and spoil the child. Poor parenting has led to these issues, and we must address them before it is too late,” he stated.
The latest surge in violence occurred after a burial ceremony, where 29-year-old Juma Said was fatally stabbed. Following the funeral, a group of armed youths stormed shops in Diani, looting and attacking residents. In response, security agencies have arrested at least 25 suspects and deployed additional personnel to maintain order.
Authorities remain steadfast in their commitment to eradicating the gang and restoring peace in Kwale, with law enforcement stepping up operations to ensure public safety.
