Human Rights groups call for accountability as police tackle rising gang violence

Rights groups HAKI Africa and Muslims for Human Rights (MUHURI) have urged the police to exercise restraint as they tackle the growing gang problem in Mombasa and Kwale counties.

The organisations called for law enforcement officers to act within legal boundaries while addressing insecurity linked to juvenile gangs.

In a joint statement issued on Wednesday, the two groups stressed the need for police officers to uphold human rights and only use firearms in situations where their lives are in immediate danger.

They raised concerns over reports of excessive force in dealing with criminal gangs, emphasizing that maintaining security should not come at the cost of violating rights.

"The escalating insecurity situation has left communities living in fear, with reports of violent robberies and assaults. As human rights organizations, we stand firmly against all forms of violence and call on the national police to ensure the safety of citizens," the statement read in part.

The organisations acknowledged the serious threat posed by gang activities but insisted that holding law enforcement accountable should not be mistaken for supporting criminals.

"Let us be clear that our call for accountability does not mean that we condone criminality. Anyone who engages in criminal activities must face the law," said one of the officials.

"We want to send a message to the police that we support their work, as long as it is conducted within the law and their actions are proportionate to the threats faced.

Demand for Arrests

HAKI Africa and MUHURI called for the immediate apprehension of gang members terrorizing residents, urging law enforcement to act decisively while upholding fairness.

"As HAKI Africa and MUHURI, we remain committed to advocating for justice and ensuring that law enforcement is carried out in a lawful and transparent manner. We call on the police to act swiftly and decisively to curb gang violence while upholding the rights of all individuals. Let us work together to build a society where security, justice, and human dignity prevail," the statement added.

They further called on parents, community leaders, and security agencies to collaborate in addressing the root causes of crime to prevent young people from joining gangs.

The concerns raised by human rights groups come in the wake of a directive by Coast Regional Police Commander Ali Nuno, who ordered the arrest of parents whose children have been linked to the infamous "Panga Boys" gang in Kwale County.

Speaking in Diani on Tuesday, Nuno blamed poor parenting for the rise of teenage gangs in the region.

"The problem is you, parents. Poor parenting is contributing to this problem. As the whites say, 'Spare the rod, spoil the child.' You have already spared the rod, so definitely, the child will be spoiled," he said.

Nuno also warned senior security officers in the region that failure to dismantle the gang could result in their dismissal.

As authorities and human rights groups take a stand, all eyes are now on law enforcement to see how they will balance security measures with respect for human rights in the fight against gang violence.