The Mombasa County Government has initiated a crackdown on street urchins and street families in response to growing public concern over harassment and criminal activities in the city. The Port City has seen an increase in street families occupying major streets, particularly in the CBD, leading to frequent incidents of muggings, pickpocketing, and harassment of pedestrians and motorists.
In April, a viral video captured a shopper being mugged moments after leaving a supermarket along Haile Selassie Road, further heightening tensions. Street families have also taken over the historic Mbaraki Memorial Cemetery, turning it into their hideout.
Abdallah Daleno, County Chief Officer for Governance and Serikali Mtaani, led County Inspectorate Officers in Saturday’s operation targeting these street families. He vowed to make Mombasa safer, noting incidents of street urchins assaulting residents. “We are determined to rid Mombasa of criminals and ensure the city is free from harassment,” said Daleno.
The County plans to partner with the National Government to develop rehabilitation programs for street urchins, offering them alternatives to crime. Daleno emphasized that the crackdown, in collaboration with police, will continue until the city streets are free of beggars and criminals.
Residents praised the crackdown, saying it would restore Mombasa’s image as a safe tourist destination. “This action will reduce juvenile gangs and theft in the CBD,” said resident Bradley Ouna.
Efforts to trace and return street families to their home counties or countries are also underway, with authorities vowing to pursue criminals involved in city muggings and robberies.
