SIAYA, Kenya — Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has pledged decisive action against smuggling, illicit alcohol, unregulated mining, and rising cases of gender-based violence in Siaya County, warning that the government will intensify a multi-agency crackdown to safeguard security and livelihoods.
Speaking during the Jukwaa La Usalama Forum in Siaya, Murkomen said that although the county remains largely peaceful, its strategic location and vibrant economy have created unique security concerns.
“Siaya borders Uganda through Lake Victoria and thrives in farming, fishing, trade, and transport. But these opportunities have also fueled smuggling, contraband trade, illicit alcohol, and drug trafficking,” he said.
The CS revealed that security agencies are targeting the widespread brewing of chang’aa and drug trafficking networks through a multi-agency approach involving police, intelligence services, and administrators.
Murkomen also flagged unregulated artisanal mining as a growing threat to the environment and community safety, urging coordination between the Ministry of Mining, county governments, and local leaders to bring miners into cooperatives for proper regulation.
“Conflicts related to mining are a threat to national security. We must regulate this sector to protect the environment, lives, and ensure fair economic benefits,” he said.
On cross-border challenges, Murkomen pointed to recurring smuggling through Lake Victoria and said Kenya and Uganda have agreed on joint measures to protect shared resources.
He announced plans to strengthen the Coast Guard Service, including a new base in Busia, to monitor lake activities.
The CS further raised alarm over youth gangs re-emerging in the region, some linked to political mobilisation, and vowed a firm crackdown.
He also called for tighter regulation of boda boda operators through SACCOs and cooperatives to plug security gaps.
Turning to social crimes, Murkomen condemned rising cases of gender-based violence and defilement, warning chiefs and police officers against allowing such offences to be settled through family or traditional negotiations.
“These are heinous crimes. They cannot be solved through family arrangements or traditional negotiations,” he said.
Murkomen also noted ongoing cattle theft along the Siaya–Kakamega border, confirming that joint security operations with neighbouring counties are underway to end stock theft permanently.
He commended Siaya residents for maintaining peace and reiterated that the government’s focus is to provide a secure environment for economic growth.
