Murkomen declares crackdown on criminal gangs causing mayhem in Western Kenya
Murkomen said the threat of gangs in the area is not limited to towns but extends deep into villages.
Interior and National Administration CS Kipchumba Murkomen has vowed to launch a crackdown on criminal gangs in Western Kenya, warning that leaders and sponsors of such groups will face the law without exception.
He said a dedicated security team will be sent to the region to ensure gangs are dismantled and public safety restored.
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Speaking in Kakamega during the 36th Jukwaa La Usalama tour of counties on Friday, Murkomen said the threat of gangs in the area is not limited to towns but extends deep into villages.
“The proliferation of goons in this county, including in villages, is largely driven by the near-normalisation of drug and illicit alcohol,” he said.
He added that Kakamega is the leading producer of chang’aa in Kenya, with authorities seizing 30,000 litres of the brew in the past month alone.
Murkomen blamed local politicians for worsening the problem.
“Nearly every politician in this county, right from MCAs, has goons. When they are not on duty at the behest of politicians, they engage in other crimes like animal theft,” he said.
He called on political leaders to cooperate fully in the fight against criminal networks.
“Anybody hiring young people to disrupt meetings, including funerals, and engage in robberies will be dealt with firmly, regardless of their status,” he warned.
The CS also expressed concern over the deployment of large police contingents to solemn events. “It is unfortunate that we have to deploy up to 50 police officers even at solemn meetings like funerals. This is unacceptable,” he said.
He urged collaboration with the Judiciary and prosecution teams to ensure those who commit crimes face harsh punishment.
Murkomen also raised an alarm over defilement in the region. “We have had more than 100 reported defilement cases in a month. This is fuelled by high alcohol and drug use as well as cultural activities such as disco matanga. We shall work with all relevant institutions, including the county government, to stem this menace,” he said.
Kakamega by-elections
On the upcoming by-elections, the CS stressed that security measures are in place to ensure peace and compliance with the law.
“I call on all parties to ensure their aspirants and other actors operate within the law. Even transporters like boda boda are on our radar. We will ensure everyone follows the law,” Murkomen said.
He reiterated that security agencies remain non-partisan, supporting lawful political activities while cracking down on illegal acts.
“What we are totally against is the deployment of goons in political activities, and we shall deal with that firmly,” he added.
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