A worrying surge of juvenile gangs in Kwale County has been linked to idle school children during the long holiday, sparking concern among security agencies and community leaders.
Authorities say many of the gangs terrorizing residents in parts of Matuga and otterrorising residents in parts of Matuga and other sub-counties are made up of boys still in school, who have been drawn into crime due to a her sub-counties are made up of boys still in school, who have been drawn into crime due to lack of supervision and constructive activities.
Kwale County Commissioner Stephen Orinde said gang-related incidents have increased sharply in various parts of the region during the school holiday.
“We are deeply worried that crime has increased during the short break meaning idle school children are involved,” he said.
The commissioner said the government is working with elders, youth groups, religious leaders, and community-based organizations to engage children in sports, mentorship, and other peace-building programmes.
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He, however, urged parents to take full responsibility for guiding their children by closely monitoring their behavior and the company they keep.
He warned that any child found engaging in criminal activities will be treated as an offender and subjected to the full force of the law.
County Peace Committee chairperson Mwanakombo Jarumani said the situation in Matuga has become particularly alarming, noting that peace-building initiatives have reduced in the area, leaving it vulnerable.
“Most of these gangs are made up of very young boys. Motorists along Dongo-Kundu fly over and Matuga with its surroundings are crying for help,” Jarumani said.
She added that the influx of criminals fleeing crackdowns in Mombasa has also worsened the problem in Kwale, as they blend in with local youth gangs.
Religious leaders have urged families and local authorities to pay closer attention to school children to prevent them from being used in crime.
Sheikh Amani Hamis of the Kenya Muslim National Advisory Council said cases of gangs involving children are even resurfacing during weddings, funerals, and local entertainment events.
“If left unchecked, these children will grow into hardened criminals. Parents, clerics, and leaders must step up and provide guidance,” he said.
Interfaith Council chairperson Reverend Zakayo Musamba emphasized that religious institutions will continue mentoring the youth, stressing that peace education is as important as formal schooling.
“We shall keep preaching peace because without it, there can be no development. Parents must watch over their children and keep them away from crime,” he said.
By Omar Shaban
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