State, EU and Red Cross reward Mombasa's reformed criminals

Kenya Red Cross has donated two boats and fishing kits to 50 reformed criminal gang members in Likoni.

The two boats cost Sh1.1 million each while the fishing gear cost Sh5 million.

Some reformed leaders of the gangs also received cash tokens in a programme funded by the government and the European Union dubbed the Conflict Prevention Peace and Economic Opportunities for Youth.

The youths, who have undergone rehabilitation and various courses, used to belong to some of the most dangerous gangs such as Chafu za Town, Watalia and Young Turks, which have been linked to violent robberies, muggings and killings.

“We used to terrorise the entire Likoni, but today we are assuring you that we have reformed,” said one of the former gang members.

They appealed to the community to accept them back.

Police boss

Likoni police boss Benjamin Rotich told the reformed criminals to use the fishing equipment well.

Mombasa county police commander Johnston Ipara said the government would follow up on the project.

He also gave Sh3,000 to two former gang leaders for their courage to embrace reform.

Speaking at the handover ceremony in Mtongwe Musa grounds in Likoni on Friday, Kenya Red Cross Secretary General Abass Gullet called on local leaders to take the lead in combating crime.

He said the programme would be expanded to Kwale, Mombasa, Lamu and Tana River.

According to Mr Gullet, Old Town, Kisauni, Majengo and Likoni have the highest rate of violent crime.

Police said there were more than 50 criminal gangs in Likoni.

Area MP Mishi Mboko said the gangs had ruined the reputation of the region, and hailed the new steps taken to contain crime.