Nairobi authorities have intensified a crackdown on criminal gangs following a rise in muggings, harassment, and robberies in the Central Business District.
Nairobi Environment CEC Geoffrey Mosiria said a man believed to be part of a group posing as street families was arrested during a joint operation with police. Officers found him in possession of police handcuffs, raising concerns over imposters disguising themselves as officers to extort money. “We arrested him and he is now in custody awaiting arraignment. We are also working to clear illegal structures that criminals use as hideouts,” Mosiria said.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has directed security agencies to step up operations targeting violent gangs, many of them linked to groups posing as street children. Police say 214 suspects have already been arrested and will be arraigned in court.
Nairobi County Police Commander George Seda also cautioned that criminals are exploiting online platforms. He warned TikTok content creators against spreading misleading videos of crime incidents for clout, saying such content undermines public trust and police work.
Residents have flooded social media with testimonies of being followed, robbed, or threatened in broad daylight. Kimathi Street traders said gangs throw hospital waste such as syringes to frighten victims. “These boys use syringes to scare us,” said Nicholas Kogi, a shopkeeper.
On Moi Avenue, pedestrians described walking with unease, while a night watchman recounted being mugged by knife-wielding youths. Victims say phones, laptops, and cash are the most common targets. Many gangs move in groups, often escaping on motorcycles despite the presence of CCTV cameras.
Authorities say the crackdown will continue until order is restored in the CBD. Police have assured Nairobi residents that enforcement will remain intense to dismantle criminal networks.
