NAIROBI, Kenya- The government says it has identified 109 organised criminal gangs across Kenya and is stepping up enforcement ahead of the 2027 General Election.
In a statement on Tuesday, Principal Secretary for Internal Security Raymond Omollo said the groups were involved in violence, intimidation, extortion and other criminal activities.
He raised concern about the alleged use of organised youth groups to intimidate political opponents and disrupt political activities.
The government’s count is up from 89 groups declared illegal in 2016, according to the statement. Western region had the highest number, with 38 groups, followed by Rift Valley with 22 and Nairobi with 20.
Nyanza had 12 groups, Coast 11, Eastern three, North-Eastern two and Central one.
“Of serious concern is the use of organised youth groups for political intimidation, attacks and harassment. This risks entrenching criminality, undermining the rule of law and eroding public confidence in institutions of governance and justice. It is a serious security concern as the country approaches the 2027 General Election,” he said.
Arrests and convictions
Between January 1 and August 31, 2026, police arrested and arraigned 1,827 suspects for offences linked to organised criminal activity and “goonism,” Omollo said.
Trans Nzoia recorded the highest number of arrests, with 491. Authorities also secured 729 convictions during the period, while 716 cases remained before the courts. Rift Valley accounted for 36.5 per cent of the convictions.
Omollo said the Inspector-General of Police had directed regional police commanders to take “firm, decisive and lawful action” against criminal gangs and organised violence.
He said officers found to have facilitated criminal activity or failed to act could face administrative or disciplinary action, subject to due process.
The statement said investigators were working to identify gang leaders, recruiters and financiers, and to trace proceeds from extortion, robbery and other criminal activity.
The government also cited decentralised gang structures and the spread of small arms, particularly near border areas, as challenges.
Government pledges rehabilitation support
Alongside enforcement, the government said it would support prevention, rehabilitation and reintegration efforts for people leaving criminal groups.
The proposed work would involve the Probation and Aftercare Service, Kenya Prisons Service, county governments, faith-based organisations and community leaders.
The Interior PS said young people could be drawn into gangs through promises of quick money or coercion, while limited economic opportunities could leave them vulnerable to exploitation.
Omollo urged young people to consider government programmes including NYOTA and the Hustler Fund.
The government also urged parents, teachers, religious leaders and community members to help steer young people away from criminal groups.
PS Omollo asked the public to report suspected criminal activity through the Fichua kwa DCI toll-free line, 0800 722 203, or police emergency numbers.
