Authorities Dismiss Reports Of Attack On Tourist, Assure Visitors Of Safety

Tourism stakeholders and security agencies in Mombasa have assured visitors that Kenya remains a safe destination, dismissing reports of an alleged attack on holidaymakers.

Mombasa County Commissioner Mohamed Noor clarified that the incident in question was a case of phone theft involving two street boys in the city’s central business district, contrary to claims in some media reports.

“We have made arrests and are tracking down other suspects. Security measures are being enhanced across the Kenyan Coast to protect both visitors and residents,” Noor stated.

He reassured tourists that Kenya remains a welcoming and secure destination, particularly as the country prepares for the Easter holiday season.

“As we usher in the Easter holidays, I want to assure all our visitors that their safety remains our top priority,” he said.

Tourism industry leaders, including the Kenya Coast Tourism Association (KCTA), Kenya Association of Hotel Keepers and Caterers (KAHC), and Kenya Association of Tour Operators (KATO), have dismissed the reports as misleading and unnecessarily alarming.

KCTA Chairman Victor Shitakha criticized the media coverage, saying it amounted to misinformation that could hurt the tourism sector.

“Tourism contributes over 10% to Kenya’s GDP. Sensationalized reports like these can have a lasting negative impact on the industry,” he warned.

Cruise Ship Incident Under Investigation

Reports had earlier claimed that a group of over 50 youths accosted cruise ship passengers upon their arrival in Mombasa on March 31, allegedly stealing valuables and forcing many tourists to cancel planned visits to the port city.

The alleged incident reportedly took place at the famous Pembe za Ndovu (Elephant Tusks) landmark on Moi Avenue, prompting local authorities to increase police presence in areas popular with tourists.

An unnamed official quoted in the reports said that while no tourist was injured, many opted to return to their ship instead of touring Old Town. The official also claimed that officers from the Kenya Tourism Board (KTB) and the National Police Service (NPS) later boarded the vessel to apologise and reassure visitors of their safety.

However, security and tourism officials have downplayed the incident, maintaining that Kenya’s coastline remains a secure and attractive destination for visitors.