This archive report was first published on 25 November 2019.
Published on November 25, 2019, a series of coordinated attacks by a machete-wielding gang left ten people injured in Mombasa, Kenya.
The attacks occurred in the early morning hours in Kisauni and Nyali constituencies, targeting businessmen heading to Kongowea market.
Sub-county Police Commander Simon Thirikwa confirmed that the suspects were being held in Nyali and were being questioned before being produced in court.
"Some were arrested immediately after the attacks. We are questioning them before we produce them in court," said Commander Thirikwa.
County Commissioner Gilbert Kitiyo revealed that a majority of the suspects were from Kisauni, contradicting earlier reports of a new gang called 86 Battalion being behind the attacks.
Commander Thirikwa described the attackers as "common criminals who are going to be dealt with in accordance with the law".
Residents of Mombasa have expressed fear for their lives, citing rising insecurity in the region, particularly as the December holidays approach.
Earlier this year, Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang'i visited the county and promised a "painful" war against gangs and drug dealers linked to rising cases of crimes in the region.
