Civil society organizations have called on security agencies in Kwale and Mombasa counties to take immediate action to restore peace in these areas.
Speaking to the media, Mathias Shipeta, Rapid Response Officer of Haki Africa, expressed concern over the increasing insecurity caused by juvenile gangs.
He stated that these gangs have been terrorizing local communities, leaving residents injured and causing widespread damage, thus creating an unstable environment.
“Police officers must maintain peace, order and protect community property. We should not allow members of the public to suffer while security forces are in place,” Shipeta said.
Meanwhile, Francis Auma of MUHURI also called on members of the public to collaborate with security agencies to tackle juvenile gangs.
Auma stressed that maintaining peace is a collective responsibility that involves not only the police but also parents, religious leaders, and other community stakeholders.
“While the police are mandated to maintain law and order, they cannot fully succeed without the cooperation of other stakeholders,” Auma stated.
Auma also alleged that some low-ranking police officers may be complicit in supporting the gangs.
He pointed out that certain crimes, including those committed in broad daylight, appear to go unchallenged by the police.
“It is concerning that some crimes happen right in front of police officers, yet no action is taken,” he said.
The civil society groups have called on all parties involved to work together to end the violence and restore peace in the region.
They collectively urged law enforcement officers to follow legal procedures while working to restore peace in the affected areas.
“Police officers must act according to the law when carrying out their duties,” said Shipeta.
His statement was backed by MUHURI’s Francis Auma, who emphasized that there should be no instances of reckless shooting by law enforcement, whether directed at the gangs or innocent members of the public.
“As civil society organizations, we will not allow reckless shootings by the police,” Auma said.
