In a coordinated operation conducted by officers from Eastleigh North Police Station on Thursday evening, more than 30 individuals, including doctors and businessmen, were apprehended on 4th Street, Yusuf Haji Avenue (First Avenue) in Eastleigh.
Concerns have been raised by some eyewitnesses who assert that the majority of those detained were youths closing their businesses or pedestrians navigating the area during the operation.
The police initiated the operation in response to reports of gangs carrying out stabbings and snatching phones from passersby in the vicinity.
While acknowledging the possibility of innocent individuals being among the detainees, the police assured that those found innocent will be released after further investigation scheduled for today morning.
An anonymous police officer revealed that the directive for the operation came from higher authorities at the headquarters.
“The order came from above; our seniors called from the headquarters”
Contrary to the police account, an unidentified eyewitness claimed that the catalyst for the operation was a complaint lodged by the owner of one of the malls on 4th Street.
According to the eyewitness, the turmoil began two days ago when unknown assailants killed a Maasai watchman.
The incident was reported to a high-ranking police official, prompting the issuance of the operation order to Eastleigh North Police Station officers.
The aftermath of this security operation leaves the Eastleigh community grappling with questions of fairness and the potential impact on innocent individuals caught in the law enforcement dragnet.
As the police proceed with their investigations, residents await clarity on the circumstances surrounding the arrests and the measures taken to address security concerns in Eastleigh.
