Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat has intensified call for stronger collaboration between the police and the public, saying security agencies cannot win the war against crime without the active support of the community.
Speaking during a special Iftar dinner hosted by the National Police Service for the Muslim community in Mombasa, Thursday evening , Lagat underscored the importance of rebuilding trust and strengthening ties between law enforcement and residents.
“We in the police cannot succeed without you, the community. We are here to emphasize the relationship between the police and the community. We are equally indebted to give you the best of our efforts. Continue to work with us and we will have a beautiful Mombasa,” he said.
He assured residents that security agencies are committed to restoring peace and ensuring the county remains safe for families and businesses.
“We will make sure that Mombasa is peaceful. We want to make sure that Mombasa is free of crime. The Regional Police Commander Ali Nuno is under strict instructions to ensure there is peace in this region,” Lagat stated.
Appreciation for Officers and Community
The Deputy Inspector General also commended police officers serving in Mombasa and across the Coast region for their dedication and sacrifice.
“To our police officers, we really appreciate your dedication and sacrifice in ensuring that Mombasa and the Coast are safe. As leadership, we are going to support you,” he said.
At the same time, he urged members of the public to volunteer information that can help security agencies dismantle criminal networks, particularly those involved in drug trafficking.
“To the community, give us information, give us intelligence. Who is selling drugs to our youth? We must work together,” he appealed.
War on Drugs and Illicit Alcohol
Lagat warned that drugs and illicit alcohol remain one of the biggest threats facing young people in Mombasa and the country at large.
“Parents, you equally have a role in making this city and country safe. Please talk to your children, stay close to them because the biggest monster we have now is drugs and illicit alcohol. If not checked, it will wipe out our community. Let’s fight this issue together,” he said.
He emphasized that the fight against narcotics requires collective responsibility, noting that a drug-free society is key to national growth and stability.
“We want to see a country free from drugs so that we see our country grow,” he added.
Warning to Leaders Exploiting Youth
In a strong message directed at political and community leaders, Lagat cautioned against financing or manipulating young people to engage in criminal activities.
“We want to ask our leaders to desist from using our youth in a bad way. If we stop financing youth to become goons and criminal gangs, we will suffocate their income. Those doing this are doing a great disservice to the country,” he warned.
He further cautioned that security agencies will take firm action against individuals found sponsoring criminal gangs.
“We will deal firmly with anyone involved in such acts. To the young people, do not accept to be used. Do not accept to be bribed,” he urged.
Community Policing as the Way Forward
The Deputy Inspector General reiterated that lasting peace in Mombasa will depend on trust, transparency, and collaboration between residents and law enforcement.
As security operations continue across the Coast region, Lagat maintained that the partnership between police, parents, leaders, and the youth will be critical in securing a peaceful and crime-free Mombasa.
On his part Supkem National Vice Chairman Sheikh Muhdhar Khitamy challenged the National Police Service to prioritize the recruitment of local residents into the service, saying their involvement would strengthen efforts to combat crime.
He argued that locals possess a better understanding of the terrain and community dynamics, making them well-placed to support security operations and enhance policing effectiveness in their areas.
“On our part, we challenge the National Police Service to ensure that it gives job opportunities to locals within the service and actively involves them in the fight against crime. It is the local people who understand the terrain and the area best,” said Khitamy.
