from MARIA MACHARIA in Nairobi, Kenya
Kenya Bureau
NAIROBI, (CAJ News) – GANGS run by teenagers are wreaking havoc in the Kenyan capital, Nairobi.
Their reign of terror has resulted in tragedy and left communities fearing for their safety.
The situation is escalating in the Umoja Estate area of the capital city.
A teenager has been killed and an unspecified number of people injured during the violence perpetrated by the juvenile gangs known as “imbogi.”
They comprise of some teenagers that are out of school and some that are attending and have at times been forcibly recruited.
Videos have gone viral of the teenagers fighting and brandishing knives.
The National Police Service has intervened.
Officers have arrested 14 youngsters, comprising ten boys and four girls.
They appeared in court on Wednesday, where a 14-day custodial order was granted to allow for further investigations.
“Efforts to locate and apprehend additional suspects are ongoing,” said Muchiri Nyaga, national police spokesperson.
“We remain committed to pursuing and dismantling criminal networks to ensure the safety and security of all Kenyans, residents and visitors.”
The violence adds to the woes afflicting the East African country where youth have for months taken to the streets to protest economic problems.
Kenya is also tightening regulations around the distribution of alcohol to curb abuse by youth.
– CAJ News