Star illustration.A few years ago, mugging or street robbery was the order of the day in the streets of Nairobi and other major urban centres.
And, while these cases have drastically declined due to various heightened security measures, there still exist some unreported incidents that happen in the dark hours of the night.
Some of the streets which had been mapped as hotspots in Nairobi are service lanes of Kenyatta Avenue, Kaunda Street, Standard Street, Muindi Bingu Street, Banda Street, and Taifa Road.
Others were Kirinyaga Road, Bus Station, Ambassadeur, Kencom, Nyamakima, Hilton area and Kimathi streets, Uhuru Highway, Landhies Road and Muthurwa area.
Mugging can be a frightening and overwhelming experience, but knowing how to respond if you ever find yourself in such a situation can save you.
These are some of the tips.
Be calm and assess the situation
If you encounter a street robber commonly known as a mugger, it is advisable to stay calm, as panicking or making sudden movements can escalate the situation.
Assess the threat to know if the mugger is armed and if they seem anxious or confident.
Knowing their body language can help you understand whether they are just looking for money or whether they might be more dangerous.
Give them what they want
Your safety is the most important thing.
If they demand money or other valuables as a phone, it is generally best to comply and hand it over to them.
Physical possessions can be replaced, but your life cannot so do not argue or try to fight.
Look for an opportunity to escape
If you are not immediately threatened with a weapon or forced into a confined space, try to look for a chance to escape.
If you can run or move to a safer area, like a busy street or public place, do so quickly.
Robbers often target individuals they feel they can intimidate, so if they see you as an easy target, running away may make them lose interest.
If possible, walk in a group and ensure that your bag straps are firmly around one’s shoulders.
Keep your distance and avoid eye contact
Keep a safe distance between you and the mugger.
If they are too close, back up slowly.
Try to avoid making eye contact or engaging in conversation—this could provoke them.
However, do not look like you are trying to escape unless you are ready to make a run for it.
Use your surroundings
If possible, walk in groups of at least two and familiarise yourself with roads and routes.
If you are in an area where there are other people around or there are places to hide, use those to your advantage.
You can also scream for help if you can do so safely, or use any objects in your environment to shield yourself or create a barrier between you and the attacker.
If carrying some items, ensure your bag straps are firmly around the shoulders.
Defend yourself only as a last resort
If the mugger is physically threatening you, and you are left with no other choice, you may need to defend yourself.
Try to target vulnerable areas like the eyes, nose, groin, or throat.
If you are carrying a personal defense tool, like pepper spray, and can access it quickly, use it.
But remember, defending yourself is only a last resort—your goal is always to protect yourself and minimise harm.
Report the incident
Once you are out of danger, contact the police immediately.
