The Nairobi regional commissioner, Gilbert Kityo, has attributed the rising concerns about the security situation in the nation’s capital to exaggerated social media posts.

Speaking to the press this Monday, September 8, 2025, alongside Governor Johnson Sakaja, the RC allayed fears that the situation had got out of hand.

“We should not exaggerate issues; we have our youth who do well in posting on social media. Let us not exaggerate issues because we want to create something that goes viral and earns money. As it is, our security situation is not as bad as some would like to depict,” he stated.

He noted that Nairobi, like any other major city, faced its share of security challenges, which the security apparatus remains keen to remedy.

Challenges

“As a matter of general security, we appreciate that Nairobi is a big city, and in any city, there are challenges associated with major cities, which Nairobi is not an exception to,” he stated.

He further noted the steps taken to ensure a peaceful town for all residents.

“We have covered a lot of ground as security agencies in Nairobi. In totality, our situation is much more improved than it was a few months back. We come from hosting CHAN tournaments, and it is not lost that it was one of the most organised and peaceful ever hosted in the country,” he stated.

Speaking at the same presser, Johnson Sakaja elaborated on plans undertaken by the county government in collaboration with the national government to solve the ongoing challenge.

Sakaja reiterated his stance to ensure a crime-free city, stressing that no one will be spared in the quest to rid the city of goons and thugs.

Take charge

“What I am appealing to you as the governor is that the citizens of Nairobi…we should take charge. Because that is your taxpayers’ money, that is your contribution. And as your governor, the first work of any governor is to secure their people,” he said.

The governor’s and the RC’s comments come amid growing concerns over rising cases of theft in Nairobi CBD, with residents and social media users sharing disturbing accounts of being mugged, drugged, and robbed.

As per videos circulating online, victims have been warning Kenyans to stay vigilant, particularly in the evenings, with many saying gangs are targeting phones, handbags, and other valuables, often using intimidation and violence.