Calls for action against rising insecurity characterized speeches during celebrations to mark Eid-ul-Fitr across the country, especially at the Coast.

Security agencies in the region have been dealing with gang-related violence in areas such as Kwale.

Over the weekend, police arrested twelve suspects said to be responsible for a series of violent attacks and looting against residents and business owners in Kwale and surrounding areas.

According to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), the arrests were part of efforts aimed at neutralizing machete-wielding gangs popularly known as 'Panga Boys'.

The DCI said the twelve are being interrogated and are being processed for arraignment.

Speaking during Eid-ul-Fitr prayers at Tononoka in Mombasa on Sunday, Mining, Blue Economy, and Maritime Affairs Cabinet Secretary Hassan Joho cautioned the youth that engaging in crime could jeopardize their future.

CS Joho commended the ongoing multi-agency security operations across Kwale, Mombasa, Kilifi, Tana River, and Lamu, aimed at tackling insecurity associated with criminal gangs and suspected terrorists.

Joho, alongside other Muslim leaders, led hundreds of Muslim faithful in prayers at Tononoka Grounds, where they issued a stern warning to criminals, stating that their days were numbered.

“Life never forgets—just like the internet. The choices you make today will determine your future. Fifteen years from now, you don’t want to look back with regret,” Joho cautioned the youth.

In Nakuru, the Muslim community expressed appreciation to the government for scrapping the vetting process for National Identity Cards (IDs), which had impacted many marginalized groups.

During Eid celebrations, Muslim leaders acknowledged that the restriction had long been a barrier for many in obtaining identification documents.

Faez Ahmed, Chair of the Muslim Association in Nakuru, pointed out that the process had particularly disadvantaged residents of northern Kenya and other marginalized communities.

“It was a deeply discriminatory practice that fueled division, stigma, exclusion, and a lack of inclusivity for Muslim Kenyans and other affected groups,” Ahmed stated.

He further explained that the vetting process created inequality and frustration, especially among Somali, Nubian, Arab, and Asian Kenyan communities.

Meanwhile, divisions persisted among Muslims in Kenya regarding the timing of Eid Ul-Fitr prayers, with some Muslims marking the celebrations on different days.

In Nairobi, large congregations gathered for prayers at Jamia Mosque, Sir Ali Masjid grounds, and Eastleigh on Sunday.

Chief Kadhi Sheikh Athman Abdul Halim Hussein had earlier urged Muslims to await the official announcement of the new moon’s sighting before commencing Eid celebrations.

“I appeal to all Muslims to exercise patience and wait for my office to make an official declaration so that we can observe Eid Ul-Fitr in unity,” Hussein said.

Muslim scholars explain that Eid-ul-Fitr prayers can be held within a three-day window, leading to differences in celebration dates.