Resurgence of Mombasa gangs: machete-wielding youths terrorise Kisauni

In a major anti‑corruption operation, the Ethics and Anti‑Corruption Commission (EACC) arrested two individuals in Mombasa accused of impersonating law enforcement officers to extort shop owners. The suspects, Tabitha Wangeci Kwena and Wycliffe Nyamanya, were apprehended on October 8, 2024, during a raid on businesses in the Bamburi area, where they allegedly conducted fake crackdowns for expired or counterfeit goods. EACC
Investigators say the duo are part of a wider five-member criminal network run by a private outfit calling itself Multi‑Works & Rights, which falsely claims it has consumer-protection powers. EACC+2KBC+2 The gang reportedly duped the National Police Service into providing armed escorts during their staged raids by publishing a notice in the Kenya Gazette assigning themselves authority. EACC According to the EACC, victims were detained at Kadzandani Police Station, where the imposters demanded bribes between KES 20,000 and KES 50,000 to release their goods. EACC+1
At their court appearance, both suspects denied the impersonation charges, pleading not guilty before Chief Magistrate Hon. Odhiambo. EACC The court released them on a bond of KES 100,000, or KES 200,000 in cash bail, with the case set for mention later this month. EACC
The case has drawn sharp criticism from consumer protection regulators. Both the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) and the Anti‑Counterfeit Agency have repeatedly warned the public about fraudulent agencies masquerading as official enforcement bodies. EACC The EACC has also urged anyone with information about the wider network to come forward via its toll-free hotline. KBC
The unfolding scandal raises serious questions about the integrity of uniformed police escorts and how easily fraudulent outfits can exploit state machinery. As the trial progresses, observers say it should serve as a deterrent against similar rackets — and prompt reforms in how consumer protection enforcement is regulated.