At least 80 suspected muggers have been arrested in an ongoing police operation targeting rising crime in Nairobi’s Central Business District (CBD). The arrests follow growing public outcry and social media reports highlighting the surge in violent street attacks.
Authorities say the crackdown is aimed at dismantling new gangs operating in the city centre, particularly around Tom Mboya Street, the Hilton roundabout, and other busy areas where commuters and pedestrians have reported being ambushed.
Some of the suspects are believed to be street children who have resorted to extreme tactics, including threatening victims with human waste. Victims have also reported being confronted by young gangs posing as content creators carrying small cameras before quickly turning aggressive, brandishing knives and blunt weapons.
In addition to targeting pedestrians, the gangs are said to be robbing passengers in matatus, either while on board, boarding, or alighting. Numerous Nairobians have shared testimonies online, recounting incidents of being mugged, dragged, or stripped of valuables such as mobile phones and handbags.
The videos circulating on social media have painted a grim picture of the situation, with many urging fellow citizens to be cautious, especially during evening hours when the attacks are most rampant.
In response, police have intensified patrols across the CBD, deploying officers and working in collaboration with Nairobi County enforcement teams. Security officials have assured residents that the operation will be sustained until the menace is eliminated.
The officers have also urged individuals working legitimately in the city—particularly content creators using cameras—to form associations and identify themselves to avoid confusion during security operations.
Authorities emphasized the importance of reporting incidents, urging victims and witnesses to come forward so that investigations and prosecutions can be strengthened.
The crackdown is expected to continue in the coming days, with security teams determined to restore safety and reassure Nairobi residents and visitors that the city centre remains under control.
