Celebrity chef Dennis Ombachi, known to many as The Roaming Chef, has waded into the debate about rising crime in Nairobi.

He argues that the recent wave of muggings and violent robberies is not random, but a direct result of political events.

In a statement shared on Wednesday, Ombachi claimed the city’s Central Business District (CBD) is now plagued by politically-linked gangs.

"If you dig deeper, the rise in insecurity in Nairobi’s CBD isn’t random. It ties back to the emboldened hired goons who, with no peaceful protestors left to harass, never left the streets."

He added that these groups are now "roaming for the next easy pay cheque."

Screenshot of Ombachi's post // X(Twitter)

A City on Edge

Ombachi's comments come at a time of growing fear among Nairobi residents. People are sharing alarming stories of violent thefts, muggings, and druggings in the city centre. Many are warning others to be extra vigilant, especially after dark.

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Viral clips on TikTok and X (formerly Twitter) show gangs targeting people for their phones, handbags, and other belongings.

TikTok personality Mjaka Mfine issued a stark warning in a video that went viral:

“They are back. The thieves who smear human faeces onto people are back. They are operating all across Nairobi City… You need to watch out.”

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The Political Angle

Ombachi’s theory that the insecurity is politically motivated resonated with many Kenyans online. A number of X users agreed with his perspective, sharing their own concerns.

@karimsuleiman wrote: “This right here! Now imagine what these miscreants are capable of should their financiers instigate election-related chaos!”

@GitauMungai2 simply replied: “This is so accurate!”

@BobMainaMagari said: “A new crop of gangs was given unfettered access to CBD for political reasons and someone somewhere thought they would leave the CBD after the gig. Here we are….”

Staying Safe in the City

With crime dominating conversations both online and offline, Nairobians are being urged to take precautions. Advice includes:

Avoiding walking alone.

Keeping valuables out of sight.

Staying alert and aware of your surroundings.