Ali Nuno Declares “Salvation or Exit” for Coastal Gangs – See What This Means
Since his promotion to Assistant Inspector-General and Coast Regional Police Commander in early 2025, Ali Nuno has taken a hardline stance against violent juvenile gangs along Kenya’s coast. Now, his tough approach is making waves.
Shoot-to-Kill Order Against Panga Boys
On February 7, 2026, Nuno issued a controversial shoot-to-kill directive targeting the notorious “Panga Boys.” This gang, infamous for wielding machetes, has terrorized residents in Mombasa, Kilifi, and Kwale. As a result, residents are noticing an immediate police presence.
Salvation or Exit: The Ultimatum
Nuno told criminals bluntly: “You have only two options: desist and accept salvation, or move out of the entire coastal region.” In other words, there is no middle ground. His zero-tolerance policy is clear and direct.
Cracking Down on Lax Officers
Nuno’s crackdown extends to his own officers. Recently, he transferred the Msambweni Sub-County Police boss and the Diani OCS. This happened because they failed to stop a surge in machete attacks.
Swift and Visible Action
Several gang leaders were arrested after a viral CCTV video showed a brutal attack on a shopkeeper in Mtwapa. Therefore, Nuno’s approach is not only swift but also highly visible.
A Track Record of Tough Policing
Nuno’s “no-nonsense” style is not new:
- Gaza Gang Nemesis: As OCPD of Kayole in 2016, he led operations that dismantled the Gaza gang, Nairobi’s most feared criminal outfit at the time.
- County-to-County Impact: Before taking over the Coast, Nuno served in Kwale, Murang’a, and Kiambu. He became known for transferring entire police stations suspected of collusion with criminals.
Why Nuno’s Making Headlines Now
His recent media attention stems from frustration with the judicial system. Nuno criticized courts for releasing dangerous suspects on low bail. Consequently, these individuals often return to the streets and commit more crimes. This frustration motivated his directive to use justifiable lethal force. He calls it an “immediate solution” to rising insecurity.
