BUNGOMA, Kenya — Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has vowed a sustained crackdown on political violence, criminal gangs and drug abuse, as security agencies intensify operations across parts of the country.
Speaking during a visit to Kimilili Town in Bungoma County alongside Didmus Barasa, Murkomen said the government would deal decisively with what he described as rising cases of goonism and organised criminal activity.
In recent months, civil society groups and opposition leaders have accused sections of the police of either colluding with or failing to act decisively against goons involved in political violence, claims authorities have consistently denied.
Over 200 suspects arrested
The CS revealed that more than 200 suspects had been arrested and arraigned in court following the deployment of a specialised police unit in Kitale and surrounding areas earlier this week.
He said the operation is part of a broader strategy to restore order and dismantle criminal networks blamed for insecurity in parts of the Rift Valley and western Kenya.
“We will continue to deal with political violence, goonism and criminal gangs decisively until our country is fully rid of these threats,” Murkomen said.
Crackdown on drugs and illicit alcohol
Murkomen also announced intensified efforts targeting drug trafficking and illicit alcohol, with authorities focusing on production and distribution networks, as well as tightening screening and enforcement at border points.
He warned that individuals involved in the trade would face the full force of the law, as the government seeks to curb substance abuse and its link to crime.
The Interior CS called on political leaders and the public to support ongoing security operations, stressing that collaboration is key to maintaining law and order.
“I call on all leaders to join us in these efforts to keep our country safe and secure, and to help bring services closer to wananchi,” he said.
Murkomen’s remarks come amid heightened concern over political violence and youth-related criminal gangs, as the government ramps up security measures in affected regions.
