Reformed gang member Anthony Maclaud on Monday, April 17, explained how children and the elderly are used by robbers to bait victims in Nairobi.
Maclaud, who is popularly known as the Truth Watchdog, cautioned Kenyans to avoid engaging children selling sweets or asking for help around the Central Business District (CBD).
He revealed that some of the children were trained to feign physical attacks giving way for the robbers to strike.
"When you engage them or move their hands out of your way, the children intentionally sprawl on the ground. Suddenly you are surrounded by people purporting to confront you for attacking the child.
"In a few minutes, the mob has robbed you of all your valuables as Kenyans watch you helplessly," Maclaud disclosed.
On the flip side, the elderly are often used to stupefy targets by pretending to be in need of help to navigate their way around the city.
Victims are sent into a semi-unconscious state where they willfully hand over their property to the goons. Maclaud advised residents on how to respond.
"When you suspect that an individual has intentionally made contact, run to the nearest stall or security person and alert them that you have been drugged before the effect kicks in," he stated.
Security expert and retired cop George Musamali confirmed that a section of rogue cops was in bed with the robbers, citing personal experience.
"One time my wife was stupefied. When I called a cop and reported the incident, all he asked was where she was attacked and the money was returned," he stated.
Musamali explained that corruption was the biggest challenge in tackling crime.
He added that cops who were in bed with criminals was the reason why every new Inspector General makes an entire overhaul of the police department in Nairobi once they assume office.
