Are you worried about your security, criminal activities and which parts of Nairobi county you should avoid for your own safety in the face of the rising criminal activities?

Well, the National Police Service has released a list of areas it considers as crime hotspots in Nairobi County where criminal gangs are wreaking havoc and leaving residents in terror.

The police report detailing statistics on crime in Nairobi shows that the criminal rings have been targeting lone rangers, business premises, M-Pesa agents as well as residential homes.

The report by the National Police Service also indicates that most of the reported brazen criminal activities by the marauding gangs are executed in the capital city in broad daylight.

Among areas they are warning Nairobians to be on the lookout when in the city are;

• Kenya National Archives (CBD)

• Kirinyaga Road (CBD)

• River Road (CBD)

• Kipande Road (CBD)

• Drive-In flyover up to KCA (Thika Road)

• KCA underpass (Thika Road)

• Total exit (Thika Road)

• Globe Cinema Roundabout (CBD)

• Fig Tree (Ngara)

• ABC Place (Westlands)

• Kangemi area (Waiyaki Way).

The gangs, according to the police, execute their criminal acts through assaults, muggings, carjacking, robbery with violence, murder, burglaries as well as house break-ins.

Nairobians are being asked to take the following precautions when walking or driving:

• Pedestrians should beware of your surroundings and take note of parked cars and individuals loitering around you.

• Avoid walking alone in the dark or try to get home before darkness sets in.

• Reduce the use of mobile phones, tablets and laptops while in traffic, especially if you don’t have tinted glasses on your vehicle.

• Do not carry ATM cards when not absolutely necessary.

• Evaluate the amount of money you have in your M-Pesa account as the criminals usually withdraw whatever amount they get in your mobile wallet.

• Avoid leaving bags, wallets or any other valuable item on the chair of your vehicle when parking in a public place as it attracts the criminals.

• Keep your vehicle doors locked and rolled up at all times.

• While driving home, look out for vehicles following you, parked too close to your gate, and also watch out for unfamiliar individuals in your neighbourhood.

• It is highly advisable to install CCTV systems in your homes for extra security.

• Those who have security fences should ensure that they are in working condition.

However, should one find themselves in the hands of the criminals, police have advised Nairobians to comply with their demands and avoid arguing, resisting or fight back.

In case of an emergency, Kenyans have been advised to call the Nairobi Area Police County Control on 020 3556771, in the advisory that comes amid a surge in criminal hangs and acts.