Security Forces Target Gangs, Extortion Rings, and Terror Financing - February 2026

The Coast Regional Police Commander, Ali Nuno, has authorized officers to use firearms against armed criminal suspects in Mombasa due to a surge in violent gang activity targeting groups like 'panga boys'. In Kwale County, four suspected members of the “Panga Boys” gang were arrested following a violent robbery. The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) dismantled an extortion ring in Mtito Andei, leading to the arrest of a Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) officer and a police officer. On a national level, the Financial Reporting Centre (FRC) has designated 13 individuals under targeted financial sanctions for terrorism financing. This action mandates an immediate freeze on their assets by all financial institutions.