Police in Likoni have shot two suspected robbers during a security operation, and recovered stolen motorbikes and a cache of weapons believed to be used in criminal activities.
The suspects were shot on Monday, December 15, during a police patrol targeting criminal hideouts in the Likoni sub-county, an area that has long witnessed an increase in violent crimes, particularly involving youthful gangs armed with crude weapons.
Likoni Sub-County Police Commander Joseph Mutungu praised the officers involved in the operation, describing their actions as part of sustained efforts to restore peace and protect residents. He added that security agencies remain committed to dismantling criminal networks operating in the area.
"I appreciate my officers for the good work they are doing through regular patrols and maintaining peace on the ground," Mutungu stated.
During the operation, police recovered motorbikes believed to be stolen, several mobile phones, and weapons, including machetes and slashers, which the officers believe were used by the suspects to terrorise residents during robberies and home invasions.
Likoni has long struggled with insecurity largely driven by armed, youthful criminal gangs that operate mainly at night, targeting homes, pedestrians, and businesses. Residents say attackers often demand mobile money PINs, assault victims, and flee with phones and cash.
Authorities previously identified some of the gangs involved, including the notorious "Panga Boys," who were believed to operate across Likoni and neighbouring parts of Mombasa County.
The continued attacks have created fear and anxiety among residents, with some accusing police of delayed response and inadequate patrols in the past. However, security agencies say renewed operations have led to arrests and disrupted gang activities.
The police commander urged members of the public to cooperate with law enforcement by sharing information that could help curb crime, noting that the police already have intelligence leads on several suspects still at large.
"We have information about those involved in criminal activities, and we shall pursue and prosecute them," he noted.
The police boss also appealed to parents and guardians to closely monitor their children, especially during the festive season when schools are closed, warning that idle youth are often lured into crime.
Common causes of crime in Likoni have been linked to poverty, high youth unemployment, and drug abuse, particularly within informal settlements with limited economic activities.
The National Police Service (NPS), in collaboration with local leaders, have intensified community policing initiatives aimed at strengthening trust and information sharing between residents and law enforcement.
Additional measures being pursued include youth empowerment programs, increased patrols, and plans to establish new police posts to improve response times and deter criminal activity.
The Ministry of Interior, led by Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, held the first-ever Jukwaa la Usalama forum in Mombasa in April 2025. The discussion highlighted governments' efforts in combating insecurity and drug abuse, which have been slowly affecting the youth.
Residents have been urged to remain vigilant, participate actively in community policing forums, and immediately report any suspicious activities to security agencies as authorities work to restore lasting peace in the coastal sub-county.
