Members of the public are strongly advised to always park their vehicles in secure lots around Mombasa as increased gang theft on car parts increase.
Cases of stolen car parts have been reported in various parts of the city with reports showing a huge increase both in gangs conducting such crimes and the scale to which they operate.
Police have been undertaking serious investigations which have led to arrests with some ending in court.
On Wednesday, April 17, a man identified as Omar Bechalbachi was charged with stealing a car engine valued at Sh80,000 from one Mahfudh Suleiman at Madhubah area, Mombasa County.
Appearing before Senior Magistrate Edna Nyaloti Omar denied the charge and was released on Ksh.100,000 cash bond or surety of the same amount.
According to a report by Citizen the same court also released another suspect, Cyprian Kiragu on similar charges on a Sh 200,000 cash bail after he denied theft charges.
Further reports indicate that the whole malice seems to be well orchestrated and big fish could be working behind curtains to fund the booming crimes.
A junior police officer from a Mombasa town police station who sought anonymity told this writer that they are pursuing lead investigations that could see some senior citizens arrested.
"Some of our investigations show some big guys may have been involved in the crimes and could soon end in jail," he said.
Mr Eliud Arumba, the Sub-county police commander in charge of Mombasa Central said residents have been complaining about the issue but latest data shows cases are on the rise.
He requested members of the public to report any reasonable leads that will enable them to stop the vice.
"In as much as reports about these car robberies have been reaching us, these gangs seem to have multiplied, we have rolled out serious investigations that will see most goons arrested.
"The public should remain vigilant and responsible not just those with vehicles but even other good Kenyans should help us with some factual leads. Let everyone stay alert and also park your vehicles safely," he said.