Tensions flared at the Likoni Ferry in Mombasa after a man dressed in sacks and tattered clothing appeared to carry a firearm, prompting authorities to take immediate security measures. A video of the incident quickly went viral, showing officers surrounding the individual and conducting a thorough search. The scene sparked significant public concern regarding safety at the busy crossing.
Addressing the matter, Deputy Inspector General of Police Gilbert Masengeli clarified that the man was not carrying a functional weapon but rather a toy. Masengeli revealed that the individual suffers from mental illness and was transported to a hospital for a formal medical assessment following his arrest.
“He was indeed arrested and taken to the hospital for a check-up. The hospital revealed that he was mentally challenged. The gun he was with was also found not to be a real gun,” he said.
The Deputy Inspector General explained that police took the man into custody despite his condition because officers cannot afford to take risks when public safety is at stake. He maintained that the police must remain alert to protect both the community and themselves, regardless of a suspect’s perceived mental state.
“The police remain vigilant to ensure that the security of the public is guaranteed. Even their own security,” he added.
Deputy Inspector General of Police Gilbert Masengeli justified the arrest by highlighting a concerning trend: criminal syndicates often exploit vulnerable street children to hide firearms or facilitate illegal operations. He noted that because authorities frequently overlook these individuals, gangs use them to store weapons out of public view.
“Criminals have, on many occasions, in the country, worked with street boys to enhance their activities in cities and urban areas. The criminals usually rely on the street boys to store their weapons since authorities are not much concerned with them,” he said.
Masengeli pointed to previous incidents, such as a case in Nairobi’s Dandora estate where street children surrendered more than five firearms to authorities, as evidence of this dangerous exploitation.
During a security patrol and public engagement at Pirates Public Beach, Masengeli and his colleague, Ali Nuno, reassured residents that law enforcement remains fully prepared to dismantle gangs like the ‘Panga Boys.’ The officials promised a heightened security presence to ensure public safety.
