MALINDI subcounty police commander Luckyton Mudavadi has issued a stern warning to criminal gangs in the region, who have been terrorising residents.
Speaking on the rising insecurity, Mudavadi vowed that law enforcement officers would not tolerate criminal activities in Malindi, a popular tourist destination that has witnessed a surge in crime in recent months.
A multi-agency security team has already subdued some criminals and efforts are ongoing to restore safety and order.
“For those engaging in crime, breaking the law, or causing insecurity, I have a stern warning—you have no place in Malindi, and your days are numbered. It’s better to leave now before we come for you,” Mudavadi warned.
He emphasised the importance of tourism to the local economy.
“This is a tourist town, and we understand how vital tourism is. We cannot allow insecurity to destroy it.”
Mudavadi spoke while receiving four motorcycles donated by the Progress Welfare Association of Malindi, a community organisation known for organising monthly cleanups in the area.
The motorcycles will enhance police patrols and community policing efforts.
“With this support, we have been given four motorbikes, which will help our officers in patrols. We are hoping that we shall have proper security. I’m urging other stakeholders to emulate so that we can achieve our goals of having a free and peaceful Malindi,” Mudavadi said.
PWAM chairperson Cate Mwikali said the donation aims to enhance police mobility and response times in addressing security concerns.
“This is a small token of appreciation for the police service in Malindi. We recognise their efforts despite limited resources, and we hope these motorbikes will help them keep us safe,” Mwikali said.
She noted that Malindi is experiencing a rise in investment and an increase in both local and international tourists.
“We are taking the first steps to reclaim Malindi’s economy from crime. The town is growing, investments are increasing, and more tourists are visiting. Without security, this progress will be undone,” she said.
Mwikali also commended Malindi police officers for their dedication during the busy festive season and ensuring that residents and tourists felt safe.
“December was a busy month, yet despite limited resources, the police maintained security, allowing people to move freely at night, just as it was in the past,” she said.
Rita Valentini, an Italian environmentalist and PWAM member who coordinated funding for the motorcycles, said their goal is to ensure tourists feel safe in Malindi.
“When tourists experience crime, they leave with negative stories. We want them to have positive experiences and return with good recommendations about Kenya,” Valentini said.
Shabeer Kassamjee, a businessman and founding member of PWAM, highlighted the organisation’s commitment to community engagement.
“PWAM is a stakeholder-driven initiative, and we have organised 65 cleanups in Malindi to date. We continue to collaborate with investors, police, prisons and the justice system to make Malindi a better place,” he said.
Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry Kilifi county chairperson Majid Swahle expressed confidence that the donated motorcycles would improve security in Malindi.
“The town has been struggling with insecurity, particularly due to the ‘Panga Boys’ and petty crimes. We hope these motorbikes will enhance police visibility and patrols in crime-prone areas, reducing incidents,” Swahle said.
Mary Mutuku, a representative from Car and General in Malindi, pledged to fuel and service the motorcycles to support the security initiative.
