Police in Kisauni Sub-County, Mombasa, have arrested two suspects linked to the brutal murder of Stephen Opello, which occurred on November 22, 2025, in Chembani, Mtopanga.
In a statement issued on December 20, 2025, the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) said the suspects, Julius Otieno Mageta, alias Junior, and his accomplice Mohammed Omar Hamisi, alias Babu, were flushed out of their hideout and arrested following a tip-off from members of the public.
According to the DCI, the duo viciously assaulted Opello on the material day, leaving him critically injured.
He was rushed to Coast General Hospital by good Samaritans, but later succumbed to his injuries while undergoing treatment.
The suspects are currently in custody and are undergoing processing ahead of their arraignment in court.
The arrests come amid growing concerns over insecurity in Mtopanga, a densely populated neighbourhood within Kisauni Sub-County that has long struggled with gang-related crime.
Residents frequently report cases of robbery, machete attacks, and house break-ins, often linked to organised youth gangs and drug abuse.
Amid the festive season, security agencies have intensified patrols across Mombasa, particularly in residential areas, beaches and entertainment spots expected to attract large crowds.
Police say criminal gangs often use boda bodas to make quick escapes through narrow streets, complicating response efforts.
Last week, the Interior Ministry announced a series of measures aimed at enhancing safety and maintaining order during the festive period.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, December 17, 2025, the ministry said the overall security situation remains stable, but warned that the season has historically been associated with isolated security incidents and traffic-related challenges.
“As the country enters the festive season, we recognize this period as one marked by increased travel, heightened activity in various social places, and a surge in both domestic and international tourism.
“The overall security situation across the country remains calm and stable, but based on past trends, we are aware that this period may see isolated increases in security incidents, traffic violations, and other opportunistic criminal activities,” the statement read.
