Pwani Patriotic Religious Leaders (PPRL) have urged the government to implement measures to address rising insecurity in the coastal region.
Speaking in Mombasa, PPRL Chairman, Sheikh Abu Qatada, said among the measures was the creation of job opportunities.
According to Abu Qatada, the creation of job opportunities for young people will keep them busy and prevent them from engaging in criminal activities.
“Many youths get involved in crime because they are idle,” he said.
He also called on parents and religious leaders to play an active role in instilling good morals in the younger generation, emphasizing that it is a collective responsibility.
“As spiritual leaders, we must work together to guide and support the youth,” he added.
His sentiments were echoed by Malindi Deputy Commissioner David Lusava, who expressed concern over the rise of juvenile criminal gangs.
Lusava noted that some children, barely in their teens, have resorted to terrorizing residents with crude weapons.
“I urge each one of us to talk to these young people and guide them because they are the leaders of tomorrow,” he stated.