By Nuru Salim
Security agencies in Likoni Sub-County have intensified a crackdown targeting criminal gangs, leading to the arrest of over 100 suspects and the recovery of a large cache of weapons, drugs, and stolen property.
The operation, which has been ongoing since December, has seen the arrest of 105 youths suspected to be linked to gang-related crimes and other forms of insecurity within the area.
The suspects are currently being profiled, with several already arraigned in court while others are awaiting formal charges.
Among the items recovered during the raids were 22 knives, five pangas, three crowbars, two slashers, 15 mobile phones, sufurias, three gas cylinders, a television set, a subwoofer, and an iron box. In one instance, a suspect was arrested in Timbwani while carrying pangas concealed in a sack and was charged with preparation to commit a felony.
Likoni Sub-County Police Commander Geoffrey Ruheni said the security situation in the area has significantly improved since the onset of the operation, especially with the decline in violent incidents associated with the notorious Panga Boys gang.
“We are now dealing with new trends such as burglary and theft. So far, five such cases have been reported and the perpetrators apprehended. Eight of them are in remand on a Ksh 300,000 bond as we await court verdicts,” said Ruheni.
A major highlight of the operation was the seizure of 241 large rolls of cannabis sativa with a street value of around Ksh 50,000-70,000. The arrest followed a tip-off from members of the public, leading officers to a suspected distribution point.
Police believe the consignment was intended for sale especially to the school children who are currently on holiday.
He issued a stern warning to any youth contemplating involvement in crime, saying security agencies are fully alert and will not tolerate lawlessness.
In a strong policy shift, Ruheni announced that parents who are found to be harboring gang members will be treated as accomplices and prosecuted for aiding and abetting crime.
“We are taking firm action against anyone, parents included, who are found sheltering criminals. Such people will be charged for abetting crime,” he stated.
Assistant County Commissioner Charity Mwadziwe reiterated the call for parental responsibility, urging families to work closely with authorities to eradicate juvenile gangs instead of hiding the perpetrators.
“Parents must be at the forefront of this fight. If your child is involved in crime, report them. We must end this together as a community,” said Mwadziwe.
She added that youths should seize the job opportunities that are available instead of engaging in crime.
She confirmed that the ongoing crackdown is a joint effort involving all security agencies and will continue until all criminal elements are neutralized.
