By Nuru Salim
Kwale County Governor Fatuma Achani has issued a stern warning to juvenile gangs wreaking havoc in the region, warning of a no-nonsense crackdown on criminals disrupting peace in areas especially in Ukunda, Diani and Kombani.
Speaking at Mvindeni during the issuance of scholarships under the Elimu Ni Sasa initiative, the governor vowed to restore security and discipline in the county, asserting that lawbreakers will face the full force of justice.
“We will not allow a handful of unruly youth to hold this county hostage,” the governor declared. “Kwale is a place of peace, progress and great potential. These criminal activities must end immediately, and those involved will be held accountable without exception.”
The governor’s address painted a picture of gang-related violence which has left innocent residents scarred, hospitalized and in some cases, dead.
Armed with machetes, pangas, knives and blunt objects, these gangs target unsuspecting victims, robbing them and leaving behind a trail of fear and destruction.
Achani didn’t mince her words when addressing parents who protect their delinquent children from legal repercussions.
“To the parents who run to leaders crying for the release of their children caught breaking the law, stop! You are promoting crime and destroying our community. Let the law take its course,” she asserted, adding that no parent should tolerate or defend such behaviors.
Leaders and community elders who incite or support juvenile crime also faced the wrath. “Any leader or elder organizing meetings or groups that promote these criminal activities is betraying our county and its people.” She said it’s unacceptable and will not be tolerated.
The juvenile crime wave, she explained, is not new to Kwale County but rather a continuation of past criminal networks, including the infamous Kaya Bombo killings in 1992 and the Mombasa Republican Council (MRC), which gained notoriety in 1998.
“The current gang problem is rooted in these historical issues hence there is a need to break this cycle and ensure it does not spiral further,” Achani said.
Her call to action extended beyond rhetoric, as she urged residents to report any criminal activities to law enforcement authorities, including reporting to the Deputy County Commissioner.
Her sentiments were echoed by Msambweni Deputy County Commissioner Josephat Mutisya, who underscored the importance of leaders working together to address cases of insecurity in Diani.
“It is only through unity and cooperation that we can effectively tackle the issue of juvenile gangs and restore peace in our communities,” Mutisya stated, emphasizing the need for collective action from all stakeholders.
Achani also warned that the consequences of insecurity extend far beyond the immediate victims posing a grave threat to the county’s economic prospects.
Governor Achani revealed that her administration is actively engaging private investors from various countries to enhance industrialization in Kwale County.
However, she warned that insecurity poses a significant threat to these efforts.
“Investors are willing to bring their resources here, but no one will risk their finances in a region plagued by crime. If we want industrialization to thrive, we must fight insecurity in our county,” she declared.
The governor highlighted the role of youth in shaping the county’s future, urging them to abandon criminal activities and embrace positive opportunities.
The misuse of the internet by young people who engage in online attacks against leaders instead of leveraging technology for self-improvement is among the major hurdles in civic development.
“The internet is a tool for empowerment, not destruction. Our youth must learn to use it to improve their lives and contribute to society instead of wasting their valuable time in promoting injustice,” she said.
Achani’s fiery speech comes amid rising concern over the prevalence of juvenile crime, often linked to drug trafficking and socio-economic challenges.
Statistics show that Kwale County, with a population of approximately 650,000, faces unique hurdles, including nearly 700 returnees linked to criminal activities.
Her powerful remarks were a call to parents, religious leaders, law enforcement and the community to unite against the resurgence of juvenile crime.
“When we allow the law to do its job and work together as a community, we can restore peace and reclaim our county’s promise and so I call upon all religious leaders to take part in giving the youths lectures” she concluded.
Governor Achani’s bold stance signals a turning point in the fight against crime in Kwale County. With her leadership, the region is poised to take decisive steps toward safety, stability, and prosperity.
