Coast Region Police Commander Ali Nuno has issued a stern seven-day ultimatum to notorious juvenile gangs terrorizing Diani, Kwale County to surrender or face the full wrath of the law.

Nuno warned that a special operations team was already on the ground, hunting down the criminals.

He added that the security team will not rest until every last one of the criminals is behind bars.

He made the remarks on Monday during a security meeting at Jogoo Grounds in Ukunda, Kwale County.

The meeting was convened in response to a recent surge in insecurity fueled by juvenile gangs in Diani.

Nuno warned that security officers already have a list of names linked to the violent attacks on Friday and Saturday in Diani, and those responsible must report to the nearest police station before officers come for them.

“The clock is ticking. We know who you are, and we will not hesitate to track you down,” he said.

He said the criminals have one option, to walk into the nearest police station now or wait for officers to drag them out of their hideouts.

Nuno said those thinking of running should forget it adding that police will catch up with them, no matter where they go.

“It will not be business as usual. The era of gangs terrorizing innocent residents is over,” he said.

The police chief said that the government is fully committed to restoring law and order, ensuring that the lives and property of residents remain protected.

Nuno also sent a warning to parents against hiding their criminal children.

He said anyone attempting to shield a lawbreaker will be arrested alongside them.

Nuno urged parents to take full responsibility for their children and engage them in meaningful conversations, especially those involved in crime.

He warned that shielding delinquent children from the law would only worsen the situation rather than solve it.

Nuno vowed that no gang member will be spared and that the special team will work closely with local security to flush out every offender.

He also directed local security agencies and the community policing committee to ensure that every criminal is arrested and charged in a court of law.

Nuno criticized the area’s security team for their reluctance in tackling juvenile gangs.

“When I was here, security was good. When did things start falling apart? If these young people can cause mayhem, then you have no mandate to be here,” he said.