Umoja gang crackdown: 14 juveniles in custody after violent attacks
Police have arrested 14 juveniles in Umoja Estate, Nairobi, in connection with a wave of violent attacks that recently claimed the life of one person and left several others injured.
According to a statement released by the National Police Service (NPS) on Wednesday, August 27, 2025, officers launched a coordinated crackdown in the estate after receiving reports of repeated assaults and robberies linked to a juvenile gang. The gang is said to have terrorised residents in recent weeks.
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“Following reports of a spate of violent incidents perpetrated by a juvenile gang in Umoja Estate, Nairobi, which tragically resulted in one death and several injuries, the National Police Service mounted a swift and coordinated operation to identify and apprehend those responsible,” the statement read.
The operation led to the capture of 14 minors. The service said the court granted police a 14-day custodial order to allow investigators more time to build their case and trace other members of the group still at large.
Authorities confirmed that the operation was largely aided by information from residents who shared crucial leads discreetly with law enforcement. The NPS emphasised that this collaboration was central to the success of the crackdown, while urging the public to continue supporting community policing initiatives to enhance safety and security.
Police have assured residents of sustained operations in Umoja and other affected neighbourhoods until the gang and its networks are completely dismantled.
“This operation has made significant progress, leading to the arrest of 14 juveniles within the estate. The suspects were presented in court today, where a 14-day custodial order was granted to allow for further investigations. Efforts to locate and apprehend additional suspects are ongoing,” NPS stated.
The service commended residents who quietly shared leads that helped officers track the group.
“The National Police Service sincerely commends the members of the public who provided confidential, credible information that led to the operation’s success. We urge the public to continue this partnership in the spirit of community policing,” the statement added.
Police also appealed for more tips and provided emergency contacts to support the ongoing probe.
“We appeal to anyone with information that could assist the investigation to contact their nearest police station or use our toll-free numbers. The NPS assures the public of its unwavering dedication to protecting lives and property across Kenya. We remain committed to pursuing and dismantling criminal networks to ensure the safety and security of all Kenyans, residents, and visitors,” the service said.
Attack
Residents have reported fear and disruption in the area, with videos circulating online showing teenagers armed with crude weapons attacking peers in broad daylight. Community leaders have called for stronger neighbourhood watch efforts to support the police response and keep young people away from criminal networks.
The arrests follow the killing of a 15-year-old boy in Umoja Innercore on Sunday, August 24, 2025, an attack captured on video and widely shared online. Police and local media reported that the teenager succumbed to injuries after being assaulted by a group of youths.
Earlier this week, Nairobi Regional Police Commander George Seda confirmed that officers had already arrested a member of the teenage gang and said the group comprises close to 20 members, with more suspects being pursued. He warned youths against being drawn into violent groups and assured residents of sustained operations.
Community elders in Umoja and surrounding Eastlands neighbourhoods have urged tighter community policing and mentorship to pull vulnerable teenagers away from the cycle of attacks and reprisals, as authorities scale up patrols and intelligence gathering.
