BUNGOMA, Kenya – Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has announced a sweeping crackdown on rising cases of violent robberies in Nairobi, vowing that security agencies will intensify operations against criminal gangs masquerading as street children.
Speaking at a Jukwaa la Usalama forum in Bungoma on Thursday, Murkomen said intelligence reports had confirmed that some of the groups, often armed with knives, are well-organised networks staging coordinated attacks in the capital.
“We have noticed that part of the problem is being caused by individuals who pose as street children, yet they are of significant adult age. They pretend to be homeless, but their main agenda is to rob and attack people. This must stop,” the CS said.
The directive comes amid mounting public concern over frequent muggings in Nairobi’s central business district (CBD), with residents and social media users sharing alarming accounts of being robbed, drugged and assaulted in broad daylight.
Viral videos have also shown victims warning others to be extra cautious, especially in the evenings.
Daily Policing, Not Just Directives
Murkomen stressed that theft and mugging cases are a daily policing responsibility, urging Officers Commanding Stations (OCSs) not to wait for instructions from headquarters.
“I want to confirm to you that operations are ongoing and they will continue. But policing issues such as theft and muggings are a daily responsibility of the OCS and officers within their areas,” he said.
He revealed that he had earlier addressed OCSs at the National Police Service Academy in Ngong, where he instructed them to deal decisively with perpetrators.
No Hiding Behind Age
The CS further warned that underage status would not be used as a shield for criminal behaviour.
“Perpetrators will face the law regardless of age,” he said, adding that the ministry is ready to redeploy officers to strengthen command where necessary.
Murkomen assured Kenyans that the government is committed to restoring security in Nairobi and across the country, saying similar security forums were being held in counties to prioritise grassroots safety.
