A Wave of Terror in Msambweni

How Criminal Gangs Are Holding Resident’s Hostage

A wave of terror swept through Msambweni, Kwale County, on Saturday as a gang of armed youth unleashed violence, leaving residents in shock and fear. The machete-wielding criminals, infamously known as the ‘Panga Boys,’ took to the streets in what they claimed was a protest against the killing of a 29-year-old man. However, what was supposed to be a demonstration quickly turned into a crime spree.

Eyewitness accounts and amateur video footage reveal a harrowing scene—businesses looted, innocent people attacked, and chaos reigning in broad daylight. Shop owners and traders scrambled for safety as the gang moved from one premise to another, robbing and vandalizing at will.

This latest attack is just one in a series of criminal activities linked to the gang, which has long terrorized residents of the Coastal region. Their latest victim, journalist Brivian Simiyu, painfully recalls his ordeal.

“I had just left work in Msambweni and was heading home through Diani when I encountered six young men. One of them suddenly pulled out a panga, and I knew I was in trouble. I tried to run, but I stumbled and fell. That’s when they caught up to me. I screamed for help, but before anyone could come to my rescue, they slashed my ear,” Simiyu recounted.

His attack adds to growing concerns over the resurgence of criminal gangs in the Coastal region. The fearless nature of these groups, their brutality, and their open defiance of the law has left locals questioning their own safety.

Businesses in Ruins, Residents in Fear

Msambweni is not the only affected area. Criminal gangs have been making life unbearable for many in the Coastal region. In Likoni, CCTV footage captured another horrifying incident—thugs forcing their way into a shop, looting it clean, and casually walking away with their loot packed into bags.

One businessman, whose shop was targeted, claims he lost over Ksh.500, 000 in the robbery.

“We are living in fear. We cannot even open our businesses freely. These young men are a law unto themselves, and the government seems powerless. Where are our leaders when we need them the most?” lamented one trader.

Authorities have responded by arresting two suspects, with additional security forces deployed in the affected areas. Msambweni Sub-County Police Commander Ahmed Hilloh confirmed the arrests, while Coast Regional Police Commander Ali Nuno assured residents that efforts to dismantle the gangs have been intensified.

Despite these efforts, the people of Msambweni remain skeptical. Many believe that past crackdowns have only provided temporary relief before the criminals re-emerge, bolder and more ruthless than before.

The Bigger Picture: A Country Grappling with Criminal Gangs

The resurgence of criminal groups in Msambweni mirrors a much bigger problem across Kenya. Over the years, outlawed militia groups have continued to thrive, terrorizing citizens, extorting money, and even influencing political events.

One of the most notorious groups in Kenya’s history is the Mungiki sect. Originally from Central Kenya, the sect has evolved from a religious movement into a dangerous criminal organization. The Kenyan government has attempted to suppress Mungiki multiple times, including through violent crackdowns, but their influence remains strong in certain parts of the country.

Mungiki is feared not just for its criminal activities but also for its deep political connections. Reports suggest that politicians have, at times, used the sect to instigate violence for their own gains. The group’s ability to resurface despite government bans and police operations highlights the deep-rooted nature of criminal networks in Kenya.

Meanwhile, in the Kisii and Nyamira counties, the name Chikororo evokes fear and painful memories. This outlawed militia, composed of energetic but ruthless young men, has long terrorized the region. Residents recall how the gang forcefully collected “taxes” from locals, using violence against those who dared to resist.

Are the Authorities Complicit?

For years, Kenyans have asked the same question: Why can’t the government eradicate these criminal gangs once and for all?

While law enforcement agencies occasionally conduct crackdowns, many believe that these efforts are either half-hearted or strategically timed for political convenience. Some residents even whisper about alleged police involvement, suggesting that certain officers benefit from these gangs by either protecting them or turning a blind eye to their activities.

“There are times we have reported these criminals to the police, but no action is taken. Some of them are arrested today and released tomorrow. How is that possible? It makes us wonder if some people in authority are profiting from our suffering,” remarked a frustrated resident from Msambweni.

This lack of trust in law enforcement is dangerous. It creates an environment where gangs operate freely, knowing that justice will either be delayed or never served.

A Call for Action: Will the Government Step Up?

With criminal gangs gaining ground in different parts of the country, the government must act decisively. The deployment of extra security officers in Msambweni is a start, but it cannot be a one-time intervention. Sustainable solutions, including intelligence-led policing, community engagement and economic empowerment programs for at-risk youth, must be put in place.

More importantly, the government must regain the trust of its people. Kenyans need to believe that law enforcement agencies are truly working to protect them and not colluding with criminals.

For now, the residents of Msambweni and other affected areas remain on edge, hoping that this time, the government will finally take decisive action against the criminal gangs that have held them hostage for far too long.https://touchdigitalnews.com/the-tragic-cost-of-betting-a-young-life-lost/