At least 300 suspects have been arrested in Nairobi in connection a surge in muggings in the Central Business District (CBD), police announced.
This is after in recent weeks, some Nairobi residents have voiced concern on social media about rising cases of daylight muggings.
The outcry prompted joint operations by the police and the Nairobi County Government leading to the arrests.
Nairobi Central Police Commander Philemon Nyakombo however said some of the reports circulating online were exaggerated.
“We took measures to verify these reports. A few turned out to be genuine, although social media has exaggerated the situation,” Nyakombo said.
He confirmed the arrests and revealed that weapons and stolen items had been recovered.
Some of the suspects were arraigned with serious offenses including robbery with violence.
“We have arrested almost 300 suspects. Some were found with dangerous knives and concealed weapons that can cause harm. We also recovered mobile phones snatched from Kenyans in the city,” he added.
Police urged victims of muggings to record statements to ensure cases proceed smoothly in court.
Police say some of the victims never reported or make a follow up which makes it difficult for investigators to solve the crime.
Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja also addressed the security situation, encouraging residents to use a toll-free number to report.
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