A squad has been established to get rid of parking boys, gamblers and street families in parts of Nairobi.
This is a new drive to address increasing crime, which targets motorists and pedestrians, mostly women.
OCPD Adamson Bungei said since July 21, they have arrested 215 parking boys, 108 gamblers and relocated dozens of street children.
Police are working with county askaris.
Bungei said beggars are also a menace and plans are underway to remove them.
Those mostly targeted are female motorists and pedestrians.
The street urchins caught were taken to 'their homes' with the assistance of the local administration.
“The problem is sustainability of this issue but we have engaged other stakeholders to help. We are determined to end this," Bungei said.
He said they met county officials to ensure there are more parking attendants and security at bays for to ensure cars are safe.
Bungei warned gamblers to keep off streets and stop pretending to be working on behalf of companies.
“Gamblers are not supposed to operate on these streets. We have warned them," he said.
Those arrested in the past week were charged in court and fined. Bungei complained the charges and fines were lenient and enabled some of those caught to go back to the businesses. They will be arrested again, he said.
“We don’t need a parking boy to show you where to park. Some of them have been removing spare parts from parked vehicles if one fails to pay them,” he said.
Residents have complained of harassment and attacks by suspected thugs, prompting the operation. Muggings also were reported.
The squad will also target boda boda riders who ferry thugs to snatch handbags and valuables.
Boda bodas are considered the main new threat in the new crime wave.
The squad will stop and question riders.
(Edited by V. Graham)
