Murkomen: Kenya Secure as State Cracks Down on Gangs Ahead of Polls
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has assured Kenyans that the country remains secure, even as authorities heighten vigilance ahead of the election campaign period.
Appearing before the National Assembly’s Departmental Committee on Administration and Internal Security in Nairobi, Mr Murkomen called on political leaders to promote peaceful campaigns and reject the use of gangs and hired goons.
He said maintaining law and order would require joint efforts between leaders, communities and security agencies, warning that election-related violence could undermine national stability.
Mr Murkomen, who was accompanied by Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja and Director of Criminal Investigations Mohamed Amin, told the committee that concerns over organised criminal groups had been raised across the country during recent Jukwaa la Usalama forums.
“The issue of gangs and goons is not just a security concern but a national responsibility,” he said. “We must act collectively to eliminate the threat.”
The committee was briefed on crime trends over the past six months, with the CS noting a general decline in reported cases. However, he flagged persistent challenges, including banditry in parts of the North Rift and Upper Eastern regions, terrorism threats in North Eastern, and rising gang activity in urban centres.
Cities most affected include Nairobi, Mombasa and Nakuru, where security agencies have intensified operations.
Cs Murkomen said investigations into gang-related incidents were ongoing, with several cases at advanced stages. He disclosed that three suspects linked to the attack on Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi had been arrested, while others are reported to have fled the country.
“We are working closely with security agencies in neighbouring countries to ensure that all suspects who fled the country are arrested and brought to justice.”
The CS reiterated the government’s unyielding commitment to safeguarding all Kenyans, preserving national stability, and ensuring a peaceful environment before, during, and after the election peri
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