Kenya: Uptick in muggings reported in Nairobi CBD as of late September

Event

A recent uptick in robberies and muggings has been reported in Nairobi's Central Business District (CBD) as of late September. Some of the violent robberies have reportedly taken place during the day. A heightened security presence is to be expected in Nairobi over the coming weeks.

Context

The increase in mugging incidents in Nairobi comes after Governor Mike Sonko pledged to establish an anti-mugging task force. Some Western governments have advised against travel to the Eastleigh and Pangani neighborhoods and underprivileged areas of Nairobi due to crime.

Advice

Individuals in Nairobi are advised to remain vigilant, report all suspicious objects and behavior, follow all instructions issued by local authorities, and take basic security precautions (e.g. keep signs of wealth concealed, drive with doors locked and windows rolled up, avoid walking alone, avoid traveling in isolated urban areas at night, etc.).

Many Western governments advise against travel to a number of regions in the country, including areas bordering Somalia (parts of Mandera, Wajir, Garissa, and Lamu counties), Ethiopia, and South Sudan, as well as nonessential travel to the city of Mombasa. Several Nairobi neighborhoods, including Eastleigh and Pangani, are also best avoided.