Three more youths from Diani in Kwale County have surrendered to police after renouncing involvement with the notorious Panga Boys gang.

Machete is their weapon of choice, hence the name Panga (Machete) Boys.

The three join at least 40 other youths who defected from the criminal group last year, saying they made the decision to support efforts to improve security in the coastal town.

The criminal gang posed a threat to tourism in the south coast, which is favourite destination both domestic and international visitors.

Receiving the youths, Msambweni Sub-County Police Commander Robinson Lang’at welcomed the move, saying it was an indication that ongoing security interventions were yielding positive results.

“We are encouraged by the decision by these youths to surrender and abandon criminal activities. This is a clear indication that our efforts to restore security in Diani are bearing fruit,” Lang’at said.

He urged other youths still involved in crime to surrender and embrace lawful livelihoods, noting that they would be guided through rehabilitation and reintegration programmes.

“We urge other youths who are still engaging in criminal gangs to come forward and surrender so that they can be guided through rehabilitation and reintegration into society,” he added.

Lang’at also cautioned parents against neglecting their responsibility to instill moral values in their children, emphasising that parental guidance plays a critical role in curbing crime.

“Parents must take responsibility of guiding their children morally, because the fight against crime starts at home,” he said.

• A Tell Media / KNA report / By Chari Suche