Police shake-up in Nairobi as gov’t moves to contain crime in the Capital

Speaking in a press briefing on the state of security in the country, Prof. Kindiki said the government is deploying a multi-agency response to get rid of criminals who have taken over the streets of Nairobi to terrorise members of the public.

Prof. Kindiki pointed out that the government has noticed the increased crime rate in the city.

“We have witnessed increasing criminal activity within Nairobi. Small group of criminals armed with knives and other weapons is terrorizing the citizens of this city as well as other urban centres. Those boys who have dared the government and want to tell us that they can take over the city and make it a city of crime. We have also heard you and therefore we are coming after you effective immediately,” said Kindiki.

“We have taken measures already in regard to counter-terrorism, and respose to bandits and banditry. In this regard, the leadership and command of the police has changed the command of Nairobi city police deployment effective immediately.”

The CS did not however divulge details on the nature of leadership change effected in Nairobi.

 The said change comes against the backdrop of increased cases of criminal activities especially muggings within the city.

According to a police report sent to newsrooms on Monday, a survey was conducted on crime statistics within Nairobi which indicated that the gangs are targeting individuals of all ages, business premises, M-Pesa operators and residential homes.

The assailants are said to be using a myriad of tactics including muggings, assaults, robbery with violence, carjacking, murder, housebreaking and burglaries.

The identified hotspots where the criminals operate have been listed as Drive-In flyover up to KCA along Thika road, KCA underpass, Total exit along Thika road, Globe Cinema roundabout and Kipande road.

Other areas are ABC Place, Kangemi along Waiyaki way, CBD (River Road, Archives, Kirinyaga road and Fig Tree.)