Police in Mombasa have arrested one suspect after foiling an attempted armed robbery at a business premises in Mwembe Tayari early Wednesday morning.

According to authorities, officers from Mombasa Central Police Station were on routine foot patrol when they received a distress call reporting a robbery in progress. The officers responded immediately, arriving at the scene to find three individuals posing as customers who had turned on patrons and staff while armed with machetes, locally known as pangas.

“The suspects had already begun terrorising people inside the establishment when our officers intervened,” a police spokesperson said. “Thanks to their swift response, the situation was brought under control before anyone was seriously harmed.”

During the operation, officers managed to subdue and arrest one of the suspects. A sharp panga believed to have been used in the attempted robbery was recovered from him. However, two accomplices escaped and are currently being pursued by law enforcement.

“The arrested individual is in custody and will be processed and arraigned in court,” the spokesperson added. “Meanwhile, investigations are ongoing, and efforts to apprehend the remaining suspects have been intensified.”

Witnesses at the scene described moments of panic before police arrived. “They came in like normal customers, then suddenly pulled out weapons and started threatening everyone,” said one employee who requested anonymity. “We’re grateful the police got here quickly—it could have been much worse.”

The National Police Service praised the officers involved, highlighting their rapid response as a key factor in preventing the robbery from escalating.

“This incident demonstrates our officers’ vigilance and commitment to public safety,” the spokesperson said. “We remain dedicated to dismantling criminal networks and ensuring the security of all Kenyans.”

Police have urged members of the public to remain alert and report any suspicious activity as investigations continue.