KIAMBU, Kenya – Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has warned that political patronage is fuelling the resurgence of criminal gangs in Central Kenya, vowing a tough crackdown on those behind the networks.
Speaking in Kiambu on Monday during a security consultative forum under the Jukwaa la Usalama initiative, Murkomen said the gangs have re-emerged in several parts of the region, extorting residents and business owners while enjoying protection from influential politicians.
“These criminal gangs are thriving because of political influence. They are extorting locals and seeking cover from politicians — they will not be spared,” Murkomen told journalists at the County Commissioner’s office.
The CS warned that security agencies would target the ring leaders behind the groups, some of whom he linked to recent anti-government demonstrations.
“This is a serious concern. The organised groups are the ones who led demonstrations and are mobilised. We are going to be firm in arresting and prosecuting them,” he said, calling on the Judiciary and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) to remain steadfast in supporting the crackdown.
Murkomen also raised alarm over the rising number of foreigners allegedly engaging in illegal activities in Kiambu, some reportedly working in collusion with the gangs.
“We will deport such people back to their own countries,” he said.
The CS further cautioned that the resurgence of organised gangs could compromise national security, particularly in urban slums, if not dealt with firmly.
On land-related crimes, Murkomen noted that his ministry was working closely with the Ministry of Lands to address widespread fraud that continues to fuel disputes in the region.
“We cannot succeed in the security sector alone. We will make arrests and charge these suspects with extortion. The resurgence of these gangs in counties could compromise national security,” he stressed.
The Kiambu meeting marked the latest leg of Murkomen’s nationwide Jukwaa la Usalama forums, which bring together security officials, administrators, and local leaders to discuss safety concerns and enforcement measures.
