Mathare: Residents worried over daytime robberies targeting pedestrians

Residents of Mathare who reside along Juja Road, in Nairobi, are worried about rising cases of insecurity in the area.

According to the residents, cases of muggings have become rampant, particularly around Moi Airbase and Kambi Safi area.

The muggings have been reported both at night and during the day, leaving residents constantly on edge.

The criminals are said to target pedestrians waiting at the bus stops, or slow moving vehicles, with intention to pinch mobile phones, bags through the car windows.

The criminals always blend in with pedestrians, just waiting for the perfect opportunity to strike, before making a quick getaway on waiting motorcycles.

Some of them use sharp knives to threaten their victims before mugging them. Then they run into the nearby web of buildings through a network of corridors in the nearby slum. 

In response to the menace, the Mathare 3C area Chairman Kennedy Omondi said he has been collaborating with local authorities to combat these criminal activities.

“We are working with the authorities on this matter. Meanwhile, I am asking residents to remain vigilant and take personal care. Stop using your mobile phone when walking or waiting to board a matatu as it only makes you a target. If you are in a vehicle, it is advisable to keep your windows up when using your phone,” said Omondi.

Residents have been advised to remain conscious of their surroundings, paying attention to any suspicious individuals nearby. Meanwhile the authorities are workings to ensure residents are safe when going about their activities in the area.