Cases of crime in Nairobi are on the rise in the Nairobi CBD and larger metropolitan area. A police officer was recently the butt of online jokes after footage emerged of a man stealing his mobile phone while he was on duty.
Speaking to Kenyans.co.ke in anonymity, two police officers shared pointers on how Kenyans can protect themselves from the predatory eyes of malicious criminals.
First, they explained that one should be self-aware in the sense that he or she can identify circumstances that can prompt them to be targeted.
Such circumstances could be due to their line of work, economic status and may include certain disagreements; either business, relationships, or personal grudges that could turn out violent.
In that regard, Kenyans are also advised not to leave their workplaces in the late hours of the night after work, as that could render them vulnerable to the criminals posing to be regular pedestrians on the roads.
They can instead order a taxi with colleagues rather than walking to the bus stop.
A safer way would be to walk in groups and be on the lookout for strange behaviours from passersby or individuals straying in groups.
Notifying friends and loved ones of your whereabouts can aid when an individual is being traced by the authorities in case of an accident.
Kenyans are also advised to be aware of their peers' conduct to be aware of any shady dealings they could be roped in and cross paths with law enforcers or criminals.
"When you suspect that you are a target, report to the police immediately and observe caution such as going to public places that may include churches and supermarkets. These are some of the places that criminals stalk their victims," the police officer detailed.
Activities such as enrolling in gyms and institutions that train private citizens on self-defence tactics such as martial arts and boxing are highly encouraged to enhance self-defence capabilities.
When travelling, the officers advised individuals to be sober and alert. "Avoid drugs and being intoxicated at all cost." they urged.
Kenyans were further encouraged to be highly cautious when travelling or using mobile phones and laptops in public which lure thieves.
Most citizens fall prey to purchasing cheap electronic gadgets in the streets. The second-hand equipment are sold without tangible transaction evidence that could land one in trouble. Some of the gadgets were found to have been stolen and were linked to mugging, armed robbery and murders.
In case your phone is stolen, you should immediately report the incident to the police, get an occurrence book number, then head to your mobile service provider to lock your phone number . This prevents criminals from using your sim card illegally.
