Police in Likoni have arrested a 27-year-old man in connection with a spate of violent robberies in the coastal region and recovered a firearm believed to have been used in the attacks.
The suspect was cornered during a sting operation in Mariakani, where detectives raided a room at a guest house and recovered a CZ pistol hidden under the bed.
Police said the weapon has been submitted to the National Forensic Laboratory for ballistic testing, as investigators seek to establish links between it and recent robbery incidents reported in Likoni and other parts of Mombasa County.
The arrest came just hours after another suspect, described by police as a “serial robber”, was captured while hiding in the Maweche area of Likoni.
Officers from Vijiweni police station, acting on a public tip-off, arrested the man who is reportedly out on bail for similar offences still pending in court.
“He remains in police custody pending processing and arraignment,” the National Police Service said in a statement, commending members of the public for their vigilance and cooperation.
The two arrests mark a significant boost for ongoing security operations targeting criminal gangs that have unleashed a wave of armed robberies in Likoni and surrounding areas.
In recent months, residents have raised alarm over escalating cases of attacks on pedestrians, boda boda riders, and local businesses, with many incidents captured on CCTV showing assailants wielding crude weapons or firearms.
Police crackdowns in April netted several suspects, including minors linked to the infamous Panga Boys gang, known for their brazen daylight attacks.
At the same time, local leaders have launched community-based rehabilitation initiatives aimed at deterring youth involvement in crime.
In late June, over 100 young men from Likoni surrendered to police after sensitisation forums and pledged to abandon criminal activity.
Police say the arrests signal progress in restoring public safety.
Investigations are underway to determine whether the suspects are connected to other unresolved robbery cases.
Police have urged residents to remain alert and continue sharing information to aid the fight against crime.
