Police probe juvenile gangs in Nairobi’s Umoja Estate

Following an increase in juvenile gangs in Umoja and its Nairobi environs, the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has launched comprehensive investigations.

The probe comes after a viral video on social media showing a group of boys engaged in violent clashes, which led to the death of 15-year-old Joshua Kubiti, who died of his injuries while receiving treatment at Radiant Hospital, Umoja.

Police have established that the youngsters aged between 12 and 19 have formed rival groups under names such as Chinje, Mbogi, Bad Bunny, and Silent, among others.

"These groups have been linked to violent confrontations, phone snatching, and theft in Tena, Innercore, Umoja I, II & III, Kayole, Kariobangi, and neighbouring areas," said the DCI in a statement.

Recruitment often takes place during school holidays, exposing more youths to crime.

Earlier in the week, a Wycliffe Muganda, a community leader in Umoja, told the media that the gangs are notorious for muggings and physical assaults.

"Anytime they meet a fellow age mate that is having a chain or a very nice watch or a belt, they will take it, whether you like it or not," he said.

The DCI states its detectives arrested 14 juveniles (10 male, 4 female) and presented them before the Makadara Law Courts.

In court, police were granted custodial orders to facilitate investigations into the murder of Kubiti and ensure the perpetrators are brought to justice.

The National Police Service also reiterated its commitment to maintaining law and order and assured members of the public of their safety.

"A sustained crackdown against juvenile gangs and other criminal elements in Nairobi and across the country remains ongoing," said the statement.