Machete-wielding Gangs in Mombasa

Mombasa has long struggled with the menace of machete-wielding gangs, a growing threat that has instilled fear among residents. These violent groups operate with impunity, attacking individuals, enforcing unofficial curfews, and disrupting the peace. With numerous incidents reported over the years, it is crucial to understand the scale of the problem and the efforts to curb these crimes. Below is an in-depth look at some of the most notable cases involving these gangs, shedding light on their brutality and law enforcement’s response.

Attack on Boda-Boda Rider in Kisauni

In November 2024, a boda-boda rider named Moses Chidindo fell victim to a brutal gang attack in Bamburi Mwisho Estate, Kisauni. He was ambushed by a group of young men wielding machetes while transporting a passenger. As he attempted to protect his customer, the gang mercilessly hacked him, severing his left hand at the wrist. Chidindo was rushed to Coast General and Teaching Referral Hospital for emergency medical attention. This attack deepened the fears of residents, who were already wary of the increasing gang activities in the area.

The "Forty Brothers" Attack in Likoni

On October 13, 2014, a theatre nurse named Muthoka was attacked by five machete-wielding gang members near Ushindi Baptist Church in Likoni. This group, known as the "Forty Brothers," had already claimed three lives on the same day in different parts of Likoni. Though Muthoka survived, he suffered permanent injuries, including vision loss in his left eye and partial facial paralysis. Shockingly, some of his attackers were familiar individuals from the neighborhood. Their presence highlighted the community’s ongoing battle with gang-related violence.

Arrest of "Panga Boys" Members in Kisauni

In April 2022, Mombasa police successfully apprehended five members of an organized gang known as the "Panga Boys" in Mjambere ward, Kisauni. These suspects were armed with machetes and were reportedly on a mission to commit crimes in Soko Mjinga. Upon their arrest, officers discovered marijuana in their possession, indicating a link between gang activity and drug abuse. Authorities urged victims of these criminals to come forward and report their experiences. The arrests were part of a broader crackdown on violent gangs terrorizing the region.

Surge of Machete Gangs in Kisauni and Nyali

Late 2022 saw an alarming rise in machete gang activity in Mombasa, particularly in Kisauni and Nyali. One of the most disturbing incidents involved the killing of a man in Kisauni, who was attacked and robbed. Community leaders pointed to political influences and parental neglect as key factors driving the rise of these gangs. New criminal groups, such as "Watengwa," emerged, making the situation even worse. This surge forced law enforcement agencies to intensify patrols and crackdown efforts in high-risk areas.

Imposed ‘Curfews’ by Gangs in Kisauni and Likoni

In December 2018, machete-wielding gangs in Kisauni and Likoni took control of certain neighborhoods, enforcing unofficial curfews. Human rights organizations reported that at least 15 people had been killed by these gangs in just one month. Areas like Utange, Junda, Mishomoroni, Kadzandani, and Kwa-Palestina became unsafe after 7 pm, forcing residents to remain indoors. The brutality of these gangs left the community paralyzed with fear and distrust. Many victims refrained from reporting crimes, fearing retaliation from gang members.

Arrest of Eight Gang Members in Bamburi

In January 2025, a police operation led to the arrest of eight members of a notorious gang that had been terrorizing residents in Bamburi. The suspects were captured in Kijipwa, Kilifi County, after an ambush in Kisauni’s Bombo area. These criminals had been linked to multiple violent incidents, including an attack where a victim lost his hand. Law enforcement recovered weapons, stolen phones, and other valuables from the gang members. This operation was a crucial step in restoring security in the affected neighborhoods.

DCI’s Crackdown on Machete-Wielding Gang

September 2024 marked a significant breakthrough when the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) arrested two notorious gang members in Mombasa. The suspects, aged 19 and 22, had been involved in a series of violent robberies across the coastal region. Their most recent crime was captured on CCTV, showing them threatening a man with a panga inside his home. Upon their arrest, officers recovered weapons, stolen items, and crucial evidence linking them to other criminal activities. Their capture sent a strong message to other gang members still at large.

Police Arrest Three Suspected "Panga Boys" Members

In January 2025, security operations led to the arrest of three suspected members of the feared "Panga Boys" gang. These criminals, aged between 24 and 34, had been terrorizing residents in Kiembeni and Kadzandani. During the raid, detectives seized knives, face masks, and other tools used in their attacks. The arrests were part of an intensified police campaign aimed at dismantling violent groups in the city. This crackdown reassured residents that law enforcement was committed to restoring order.

Police Officers Arrest Four Mombasa Robbers After Night Fight

January 2025 saw yet another decisive operation by the DCI, which resulted in the arrest of a notorious four-member machete gang. This gang had been mugging locals at night, making streets unsafe. The operation, carried out by officers from Mjambere Police Station, also led to the seizure of weapons used in the attacks. Their arrest followed a violent assault on two traders heading to Kongowea Market. The swift police action prevented further attacks and reinforced the city’s anti-gang efforts.

How Kisauni Became a Paradise for Criminal Gangs

By November 2022, reports confirmed Kisauni’s reputation as a haven for machete-wielding gangs. Many of these groups consisted of individuals as young as 12, highlighting the increasing recruitment of minors. Residents felt helpless, fearing that reporting gang activities would make them targets. As the crime rate soared, local leaders and security agencies intensified efforts to curb the violence. These reports underscored the urgent need for long-term solutions to address youth crime in the region.

Key Reasons Behind Machete Gang Activity

1. Socio-Economic Factors

   • High unemployment rates among youth.
   • Lack of access to quality education.
   • Poverty-driven desperation for quick money.
   • Influence of drugs and substance abuse.
   • Weak family structures and parental neglect.
   • Political interference in criminal activities.
   • Limited engagement opportunities for young people.

2. Steps to Improve Security in Mombasa

   • Strengthening community policing programs.
   • Providing more job opportunities for at-risk youth.
   • Investing in educational programs and mentorship.
   • Conducting more frequent security patrols.
   • Establishing rehabilitation centers for former gang members.
   • Encouraging residents to report suspicious activities.
   • Enhancing law enforcement training and resources.

Pro Tip: Community collaboration with law enforcement can significantly reduce crime rates. Establishing trust between police and residents ensures timely reporting and effective intervention against gang activities.

“A community united against crime is stronger than any gang.”

Mombasa’s struggle with machete-wielding gangs demands urgent action from all stakeholders. Strengthening security, supporting youth empowerment, and fostering trust between residents and police are key to resolving this crisis. Each arrest and successful operation brings hope, but sustainable change requires long-term solutions. If this issue concerns you, share this article to spread awareness and encourage meaningful discussions. Together, we can reclaim Mombasa’s streets and build a safer, crime-free future.