17 people nabbed in multi-agency crackdown on crime in Kilifi
By Ndiritu Wanjiru, February 24, 2026The National Police Service has confirmed to have tightened security activities in the Coast region of Kenya in the recent surge of criminal activities.
The operation, which has been very localised in Kilifi County, is against armed robbery, burglary, drug trafficking, violent land encroachments, and other criminal activities that interfere with the interests of the people.
Taking to their social media handle on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, the National Police Service confirmed that through intense crackdown activities, 17 people associated with criminal acts have been arrested and are currently in custody awaiting arraignment at the court.
“As a result of a targeted multi-agency operation, 17 suspects linked to various criminal activities have been arrested and placed in custody pending arraignment in court,” the NPS statement read in part.
Police seize narcotics and riffles
The NPS further noted that during the raid, the Police did recover important items during the operations, including, but not limited to, an AK-47 rifle with ammunition, over 35 kilograms of narcotic substances, including bhang, heroin and cocaine, more than 40 mobile phones and SIM cards that are believed to be used to coordinate criminal activities.
The National Police Service also confirmed having recovered crude weapons, including clubs and machetes, and government property, including police uniforms.
“Officers also recovered one AK47 rifle, one magazine, twelve rounds of ammunition; more than 35 kilograms of suspected narcotic drugs, including bhang, heroin and cocaine; over 40 mobile phones and SIM cards believed to have been used in coordinating criminal activities; several crude weapons such as clubs, and machetes; as well as government stores, including police uniforms and other exhibits relevant to ongoing investigations,” the statement added.
The National Police Service has made it its duty to protect lives and property, communities and the rule of law. The citizens have been encouraged by the Police to report suspicious activity at police stations as well as through the use of toll-free numbers.