Matiangi says Mombasa gang attacks linked to drug trafficking

Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i says the recent Mombasa attacks in which innocent residents were viciously hacked by knife-wielding criminals are connected to the movement of drugs in the area.

Speaking in Mombasa after a meeting with Regional and County security teams and local political leaders, Dr. Matiang’i said the government would intensify a crackdown to dismantle the criminal networks in the coastal region.

“There is a clear nexus between the recent Mombasa attacks and the movement of drugs in the region… It is going to be painful but we are prepared for that painful journey and these leaders have told me they will support us in enhancing security,” said Matiang’i.

“I don’t think Kenyans are interested in our stories, threats or promises. People want to see results. And I have told my colleagues in the security sector who are here whatever it is going to take let us sought this problem out.”

At least 13 people were injured during the attack by the marauding gangs.

Matiang’i further said he is aware of some political leaders who are attempting to incite the youth under the guise of political mobilization.

“This time round we have to confront this issue head-on. I have raised very specific and very painful issues… Even if it means looking amongst ourselves within the government structures and security infrastructure we have, we are reorganizing all of it to address this problem,” he said.

Police have since arrested 11 out of the 13 youth suspected to have directly taken part in the attacks, with Matiang’i adding that a hunt is ongoing for the masterminds.

“We cannot surrender the lives of our young people to some criminals whatever their social status or political affiliation. We are not naïve; we understand the risks associated with drug peddling, and we will stay the course of our agenda for youth development and national security,” said the Interior CS.

The meeting was also attended by Inspector General of Police Hillary Mutambai, the Director of the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC) Amb. Martin Kimani, the Secretary for Internal Security (SIS) Moffat Kangi and Coast Regional Commissioner John Elungata.

Others included Mombasa County Senator Mohammed Faki, MPs Mohamed Ali and Mishi Mboko, and all National Government Administration Officers (NGAOs) from the region.