In a dramatic turn of events that has stirred public concern, three teenagers have been arrested in connection with a violent broad-daylight robbery at Express Mall in Garissa Town last week.

According to a police report, the suspects, all aged between 14 and 16, were apprehended on Tuesday in a targeted security operation led by Senior Chief Dekow Mohamud of Iftin East Location.

The arrests follow a widely circulated video on social media showing scenes of chaos and aggression during the September 18 robbery at the popular shopping centre adjacent to Garissa Soko Mugdi Market.

“This is a wake-up call. The age of these suspects is deeply troubling. We must confront the root causes of youth involvement in serious crime,” said Senior Chief Dekow, confirming the arrests.

“The three suspects are currently being held at Garissa Police Station as investigations continue and legal proceedings loom,” the police report stated.

This latest incident has heightened fears about a surge in youth-led crime in Garissa. Residents and leaders alike have voiced concern over what many see as a worrying trend of teenage involvement in violent criminal activities, particularly in Garissa Town neighbourhoods.

Community leaders blame a combination of youth unemployment, school dropouts, and the lack of structured recreational programmes for the rise in crime.

“We are seeing boys as young as 13 caught up in gang activity. Unless we invest in mentorship, education and jobs, we will keep arresting children instead of raising them,” said Abdi Aden, a local youth activist.

Police have assured the public that they are intensifying surveillance and community engagement efforts to combat the trend.

Meanwhile, there are growing calls for a county-wide forum to address juvenile crime prevention, rehabilitation strategies, and the need for parental and community accountability.