Police arrest man linked to ‘Panga Squad’ in Kibra operation
By Kenneth Mwenda, June 7, 2026Police have arrested a claimed member of a criminal gang known as the ‘Panga Squad’ during a targeted operation in Kibra, Nairobi, as security agencies intensify efforts to tackle organised crime in the area.
In a statement issued on Sunday, June 7, 2026, the National Police Service (NPS) said officers from Kibra Police Station conducted a sting operation in the Laini Saba area, specifically around Amref Grounds, following intelligence on gang activity.
According to the NPS, officers encountered several individuals believed to be members of a gang that has been linked to violent attacks and robberies in Kibra.
When the suspects spotted the police, they fled into nearby residential areas, prompting officers to pursue them.
“The officers encountered several individuals believed to be members of a notorious criminal gang known for wielding pangas and other dangerous weapons,” the NPS said.
Police said most of the suspects managed to escape through the densely populated settlement, but officers tracked the group to a hideout and arrested one who was armed with a machete.
He reportedly resisted arrest, but officers subdued him and recovered the weapon without any injuries being reported.
“He violently resisted arrest, but officers subdued him and secured the weapon without injury,” the statement added.
The man remains in police custody and is expected to be arraigned in court once investigations and processing are completed.
Suspect linked to Panga Squad
Preliminary investigations have identified the arrested man as a key member of the Panga Squad, a gang that police say has terrorised residents of Laini Saba and neighbouring areas through robbery, intimidation and violent attacks.
The NPS said several complainants had positively identified the suspect and linked him to incidents that have created fear among residents.
Police believe the arrest could help ongoing investigations into gang-related crimes in Kibra, one of Nairobi’s most densely populated informal settlements.
For years, residents in parts of Kibra have raised concerns about criminal gangs operating within the area, with some groups accused of attacking members of the public using machetes and other crude weapons.
Security agencies have periodically carried out operations aimed at dismantling such groups and restoring public safety.
Police seek public cooperation
The National Police Service thanked residents who continue to share information with law enforcement officers.
“The National Police Service commends residents who continue to cooperate with law enforcement by providing crucial information that supports crime prevention and detection efforts,” the statement said.
The service urged members of the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities through police stations, emergency numbers 999 and 911, or the Directorate of Criminal Investigations reporting channels.
Police further said operations targeting criminal gangs in Kibra and other parts of the country will continue.
“Operations targeting all criminals within Kibra and beyond will continue with increased intensity as the police endeavour to ensure a safer and more secure environment for all,” the NPS said.
The latest arrest highlights the continued crackdown on criminal gangs in Nairobi as police seek to improve security, reduce violent crime and respond to concerns raised by residents in affected neighbourhoods.