TRANS NZOIA, Kenya — The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has opened investigations into allegations of violence and the presence of armed individuals during the Ol Kalou parliamentary by-election, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has announced.
Speaking in Trans Nzoia County on Sunday, Murkomen said investigators had opened a case file to identify individuals captured in incidents of violence during the July 16 mini-poll and determine whether criminal offences were committed.
“The DCI has opened an investigation file to establish who these individuals are, the crimes they committed, who they harmed, and why they were there, so that appropriate legal action can be taken,” Murkomen said.
Witnesses urged to record statements
The Cabinet Secretary said individuals linked to the reported incidents would be summoned to record statements as investigations progress.
He added that once investigations are completed, the files will be forwarded to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) for consideration of possible charges.
Murkomen also appealed to members of the public with credible information or evidence to cooperate with investigators.
“As it stands now, all Kenyans who have complaints or have witnessed any of those acts, beyond just seeing them on camera, it is important to record a statement with the DCI so that proper action can be taken to ensure this nation is safe,” he said.
Claims of sexual abuse
Murkomen also addressed allegations by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua that women were sexually assaulted during the by-election.
He said anyone with credible evidence supporting the allegations should present it to investigators to enable appropriate action.
The Cabinet Secretary emphasized that all claims would be handled through the established investigative and judicial processes.
Warning against inflammatory politics
Murkomen cautioned political leaders against making tribal, divisive or inflammatory statements, warning that such rhetoric could undermine national cohesion and security.
“You don’t have to burn our country just to win one seat,” he said.
He maintained that political competition should not come at the expense of peace and stability.
Government defends development agenda
The Interior CS also defended the government’s development programme, expressing confidence that ongoing projects would continue to earn public support despite political contestation.
Fresh crackdown on criminal gangs
Separately, Murkomen announced a second security operation targeting organised criminal gangs operating in Kitale Town and its surrounding areas.
He warned that security agencies would take firm action against criminals regardless of their political affiliations.
“We are coming for round two. If you are involved in robbing or harming people, we will take firm action against you. We will not ask about your political affiliation,” he said.
Murkomen added that similar security operations would be extended to other towns across the country as part of efforts to combat organised crime and enhance public safety.
