Police urged to use 'smart intelligence' in war against drug abuse in Mombasa

Mombasa County Commissioner Nelson Marwa has urged the police to employ 'smart intelligence policing’ tactics in the fight against drug abuse in Mombasa.

Mr Marwa said the move will eliminate victimisation of innocent people in the war against crime and drug abuse.

“The government will not arrest the entire Majengo, but an individual criminal,” said Mr Marwa during a security meeting in the area.

Mr Marwa urged residents to cooperate with the police in the fight against drug abuse which has led to increased crime.

He said the government will arrest drugs barons in a bid to cut the drug supply chain.

The administrator said a similar meeting was held in Old Town two weeks ago which saw youths involved in drugs surrender for rehabilitation.

“The crime rate has gone down in Mombasa because of cooperation. Sometimes people have to come up and said enough is enough,” he said.

TARNISHED MAJENGO IMAGE

Senator Hassan Omar asked leaders in the county to be cautious on what they say in public since they have in past tarnished the image of the area.

“We visited Germany recently. Surprisingly Majengo is negatively known for radicalisation.

"Repeated negative words that leaders speak with time affect the minds of the youths,” said Mr Omar adding that not every youth in the area is a radical.

Mvita MP Abdulswamad Nassir said plans to revive the image of Majengo were underway.

“So far I, 000 street lights have been bought in Mvita Constituency. Kenya Power will take the responsibility to install them.

"This will facilitate a 24-hour economy and enhance security,” he said.

Kisauni MP Rashid Bedzimba challenged youths to create jobs for themselves.

“Do not be tricked by those who promise to employ every youth in Mombasa. The solution is for you to start your own business,” he said.

Governor Hassan Joho also challenged the youths to work and stop complaining of lack of jobs as the cause of insecurity.