Abdikadir Dekow [white cap] congratulates a pool
tournament winner while Edward Okello [black cap] watches on Saturday in Nyali
/ BRIAN OTIENO
A security expert has linked Mombasa’s high number of criminal gangs to the county’s status as a tourism hub.
A survey by the National Crime Research Centre found that of 309 criminal gangs across 11 counties, Mombasa has 73, Nairobi 56, and Kilifi 47.
Abdikadir Dekow said the county’s tourism sector attracts people from various regions, including gang members, whose lifestyles can influence local youth.
“Young people often start with petty theft before moving to more serious crimes,” he said.
Dekow said while law enforcement crackdowns have reduced hard drug use, abuse of over-the-counter pharmaceuticals has risen.
Drug abuse, he added, has contributed to teenage pregnancies, with some youths turning to crime to support their families.
Dekow called on both religious and political leaders to create programs to engage youth and curb drug abuse and crime.
He has initiated pool tournaments in Nyali as a recreational alternative.
More than 100 youths have participated in the tournaments, receiving prizes and participation money, which can support small ventures.
