New wave of violent crimes hits Mombasa, cripples businesses

Mombasa Governor Hassan Ali Joho (standing) consults Mvita MP Abdulswamad
Nassir (left) at Pigot in the Old Town of Mombasa last Friday during a
security meeting. [PHOTO: MAARUFU MOHAMED/STANDARD]

MOMBASA: A wave of violent crimes has hit Mombasa. Hardly a day passes without reports of either a murder, violent robbery at jewellery shops or carjacking and kidnappings in the Old Town, Majengo, Tudor, Mwembe Tayari and other parts of the coastal city.

Residents who have lived in Mombasa for decades reminisce days when one would stroll the beach, city streets, alleys and slums without fear of mugging, robbery and harassment by thugs and even police.