Nyanza Regional Police Commander Patrick Tito has issued a stern warning to students engaging in criminal activities during the mid-term holiday, vowing that offenders will be treated as criminals rather than students.
“I urge all students home for mid-term to relax, stay with their families, and assist their parents with domestic chores. If anyone is tempted to engage in crime, once we find you, we will not treat you as a student but as any other criminal,” Tito cautioned in an exclusive interview with the Kenyan Taloid on Wednesday.
Tito revealed that crime rates in the region spike whenever schools close, with students sometimes committing petty offenses and serious crimes such as phone snatching, which often results in victims being stabbed or struck with blunt objects.
“From past experiences, we’ve observed that when schools close, young criminals—some of whom we strongly believe are students—emerge. They engage in petty theft and serious crimes, snatching phones from pedestrians and, in the process, injuring victims by hitting them with blunt objects or stabbing them,” he stated.
The police commander noted that these crimes typically occur in the early morning hours and late in the evening. He urged parents to monitor their children’s whereabouts, emphasizing that students should be at home resting from rigorous academic work or assisting with household chores rather than engaging in crime.
“Parents, kindly ensure you know where your children are at all times, especially during the early morning and evening hours when these crimes often happen. It is unfortunate when a student who should be at home is instead found committing a crime. Students, focus on your studies and lay a strong foundation for your future by excelling in academics,” he urged.
Tito reassured the public of their safety, affirming that security agencies—including the police, national government administration officers, Nyumba Kumi, chiefs, and community policing teams—are on high alert to handle any threats to peace and stability.
“We are fully prepared to deal with any incidents that threaten peace and tranquility in this region. I urge residents to report any suspicious activity, and we will respond swiftly,” he assured.
