Mombasa steps up efforts to curb crime ahead of festive season
By Joel Masibo, December 5, 2025Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir has announced a series of coordinated security measures aimed at ensuring the county remains safe and orderly as it prepares to receive thousands of visitors during the festive period.
Speaking during his monthly briefing with the County Security Committee, chaired by County Commissioner Mohamed Nur, Governor Nassir described the meeting as “focused and productive,” highlighting the county’s commitment to proactive, people-centred security management.
According to him, the county and national security agencies have agreed on enhanced joint operations to safeguard both residents and tourists.
With Mombasa traditionally experiencing increased activity during the December holidays, the governor emphasised the need for heightened vigilance, efficient coordination, and a welcoming environment for all.
Addressing key issues
One of the key issues raised during the meeting was the rising presence of what he termed “commercial” street families—individuals, including minors, who reportedly travel from as far as Tanzania to engage in organised begging and petty crime.
Nassir noted that this trend has increasingly become a challenge to public order.
”We also addressed the growing concern of “commercial” street urchins, some arriving from as far as Tanzania, whose activities have increasingly become a nuisance and contributed to petty crime. We are working closely with national security agencies and our social services teams to manage this decisively and humanely,” Abdulswammad Nassir took to X on Friday, December 5, 2025.
He assured the public that the county is working closely with national authorities and its own social services department to address the matter firmly but humanely, ensuring that vulnerable groups are protected even as public safety is prioritised.
The governor also announced plans to map out Mombasa for the relocation of Methadone Assisted Therapy (MAT) clinics currently situated within residential neighbourhoods such as Frere Town and Marimani.
The relocation aims to place the facilities in more suitable, regulated zones that safeguard patients while reducing discomfort and safety concerns raised by surrounding communities. Nassir reaffirmed that the move will balance public health needs with neighbourhood harmony.
Mapping up Mombasa
”Further, we resolved to jointly map out Mombasa to facilitate the relocation of MAT clinics from residential neighbourhoods such as Frere Town and Marimani to more suitable and regulated spaces, ensuring safety, dignity, and community harmony,” Nassir said.
He concluded by praising the strong collaboration between the county administration and national security organs, noting that their partnership remains “strong and proactive, always putting the safety and well-being of the people of Mombasa first.”