Murkomen warns against social media misuse, defends police over abduction claims

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has cautioned against the misuse of social media, warning that offenders will face strict action under the Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes Act.

Speaking in Bungoma on Friday during a visit to the family of National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang'ula, Murkomen said the government will not tolerate individuals using digital platforms to incite division or glorify harmful behaviour.

"We will arrest all of them, including other criminals, and bring them to book," he affirmed.

The CS called on parents and leaders to play a proactive role in shaping the values of the younger generation, lamenting the growing trend of negative behaviour being celebrated online.

"Some parents are glorifying the bad things their children do on social media. This must stop," Murkomen said, adding that the collective responsibility of families and leaders is essential to address societal challenges.

The Interior CS linked social media misuse to the broader issues affecting communities and urged Kenyans to embrace positive values.

He stressed the importance of ensuring that digital platforms are used constructively to foster unity and progress.

Abductions

On the abductions and enforced disappearances of Kenyans by people believed to be state agents, Murkomen denied any wrongdoing on the part of law enforcement agencies.

He insisted that the government does not operate under a policy of abductions or disappearances.

"The National Police Service has confirmed to us that it has not arrested anyone and failed to take them to court as required by the law. As a government, we are in agreement that the NPS, under the command of the Inspector General, is independent, and we will not interfere with their work," Murkomen said.

The Interior CS also disclosed that the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has commenced investigations into reported cases of missing persons, with full support from the government.

He reassured the public that the authorities remain committed to upholding human rights and the rule of law.

Speaker Wetang'ula echoed Murkomen's sentiments, highlighting the dangers of social media misuse.

"Social media is good, but also bad if not used in the right way. To wish anyone death or harm is a crime under our law. Let's use it to communicate, raise funds, even seduce each other if you must, but stop causing hatred and division in our society," Wetang'ula said.

The issue of abductions has raised significant concerns across Kenya, with families pleading for government intervention.

Missing abduction victims

According to the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR), 82 abduction cases have been reported since June 2024, with 13 occurring in the past three months alone.

Six victims from December remain missing, including Steve Kavingo Mbisi from Machakos, Billy Wanyiri Mwangi from Embu, Peter Muteti from Uthiru, Nairobi, and Bernard Kavuli from Ngong, Nairobi.

President William Ruto on Friday urged parents and the youth to foster responsibility and discipline.

Speaking during the Governor's Cup at Raila Odinga Stadium in Homa Bay, the president assured citizens of his government's commitment to ending the wave of abductions, which has sparked fear and outrage across the nation.

"I will end abduction. This is because we want the youths to live in harmony and be responsible, disciplined, and patriotic," Ruto said on Friday.

"I'm telling each and every parent: please be responsible and take care of your children. Our children are gifts. Please do your part, and as government, we shall also do our bit," he added.