Simulated gunfire expected as police lead emergency drill in Mombasa
By Mustafa Juma, March 4, 2026Members of the public in Mombasa have been advised not to panic after authorities announced a planned multi-agency emergency simulation exercise at Mombasa Beach Hotel.
In a public alert issued on Wednesday, March 4, 2026, ahead of the drill, the Kenya Police Service said the exercise will involve coordinated teams from the police, medical emergency responders, and firefighting units.
“We wish to notify members of the public of a planned multi-agency emergency simulation exercise at Mombasa Beach Hotel. The drill will involve teams from the Police Service, medical responders, and firefighting units, aimed at testing emergency preparedness, inter-agency coordination, and response effectiveness,” the statement read in part.
What to expect
According to the notice, the simulation is designed to test emergency preparedness, inter-agency coordination, and overall response effectiveness in the event of a major security or disaster incident.
During the drill, members of the public may hear simulated gunshots and witness heightened emergency activity, including the rapid deployment of security personnel, ambulances, and fire engines around the hotel and its surrounding areas.
“Please note that there is no real security threat at the hotel or the surrounding areas. During the exercise, members of the public may hear simulated gunshots and observe heightened emergency response activity, including movement of security and rescue personnel,” the Kenya Police Service stated.
Authorities emphasised that the gunfire will be part of a controlled training scenario and does not signal any real security threat.
Police urged residents, tourists, and businesses in the area to remain calm and cooperate with security officers throughout the exercise.
“There is no real security threat at the hotel or surrounding areas,” the statement clarified, adding that the drill is purely a preparedness measure.
Officials noted that such simulations are critical in strengthening coordination among agencies and ensuring faster, more effective responses during actual emergencies.
“We urge the public to remain calm and not be alarmed, as this is a controlled training exercise designed to enhance safety and readiness. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation as we continue strengthening our preparedness to serve and protect,” the notice reads.
Machete-wielding gangs
This comes weeks after Coast Regional Police Commander Ali Nuno authorised officers to use firearms against machete-wielding gang members as police intensify operations against violent crime across the Coast region.
Speaking to the press on Saturday, February 7, 2026, Nuno said officers have the right to protect themselves and members of the public when facing immediate danger from armed suspects. His directive applies to hotspots in Mombasa, Kilifi, and Kwale counties, where gangs have carried out a string of violent robberies using pangas and other crude weapons.
“All those men and ladies involved in crime for one reason or another, your days are numbered,” Nuno said.
“Crime doesn’t pay. You have two options: desist and accept salvation, or move out of the entire Coast region. Where we are justified to use our firearms, we will not hesitate.”