A man police have described as a “serial robber” was arrested on Friday in Likoni, Mombasa, following a tip-off from members of the public.
The suspect was found hiding in the Maweche area and taken into custody by officers from Vijiweni police station.
Police said he is linked to multiple robberies within Likoni subcounty and was out on bail for similar offences that are still before the court.
“He remains in police custody, pending processing and arraignment,” the National Police Service said in a statement on Saturday.
The statement also commended the public for sharing information that led to the arrest, terming it a sign of growing cooperation between communities and security agencies.
The arrest comes as police intensify efforts to crack down on rising insecurity in parts of Likoni.
Over recent months, residents have raised alarm about gangs targeting homes and businesses, sometimes using crude weapons.
In several cases, suspects have been caught on CCTV breaking into shops or accosting pedestrians.
Police in Mombasa have launched operations to flush out criminal groups believed to be behind the attacks.
In April, police arrested several suspects associated with a gang known for using pangas to rob residents in Likoni and neighbouring areas.
Some of those arrested were minors believed to be members of the infamous Panga Boys, a criminal gang linked to brazen daytime attacks in the coastal city.
Police have also been collaborating with local leaders and community-based groups to rehabilitate young people involved in crime.
In June, over 100 young men from Likoni surrendered to the authorities and pledged to abandon criminal activity.
The surrender was part of a wider initiative aimed at restoring order and offering alternative paths for at-risk youth.
Security officers say the arrest of the latest suspect is part of ongoing efforts to dismantle criminal networks in the coastal region.
Investigators are now working to establish whether the man is connected to other unresolved robbery cases in the area.
Police are urging the public to continue sharing information that may help in identifying suspects or preventing crimes.
