Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has directed police and detectives to intensify their crackdown on criminal gangs, asserting that a national consensus now exists to deal firmly with goons.
While admitting that politicians have long used bodyguards and hired groups that eventually turned into violent gangs, Murkomen argued that political interests have exaggerated the scale of the problem.
“I must assure the people of Kenya that this issue of goons and goonism is not as bad as being exaggerated. It is actually hyped around politics and politicians,” Murkomen said, claiming that leaders from across the political divide have historically relied on these groups during political activities.
He singled out the 2024 anti-government protests, alleging that politicians, including impeached former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, mobilized groups that ultimately carried out violent acts, such as attacking businesses and attempting to invade Parliament.
In response, Murkomen noted that the government arrested more than 3,000 suspects during the 2024 and 2025 demonstrations. “Over 3,000 goons were arrested. The courts released many of them on personal bonds or very small cash bail. We have been taking action,” he stated.
Murkomen Says Bishops Now Back Tougher Action on Gangs
Murkomen also noted that religious leaders, who initially defended suspects arrested during the protests, now support tougher measures against criminal gangs. He welcomed this shift, explaining that support from church leaders has provided the police with the public backing needed to act decisively.
“I’m happy that the bishops have turned around. They now want goons to be dealt with. We now have public support from all quarters, including the religious sector,” he said.
Praising security agencies for recent operations in Busia, Kitale, Nyeri, Meru, and Kikuyu, the Interior CS credited the crackdown with restoring calm across several regions. He defended the arrest and prosecution of individuals accused of organizing violence, including a Member of Parliament who faces terrorism-related charges, insisting that critics should not accuse security agencies of targeting politicians whenever officers enforce the law.
“Don’t lie that we have not been taking action. It is you who have been politicising this issue,” he added, urging leaders from all parties to stop defending criminal gangs when arrests occur.
To finish dismantling these criminal networks nationwide, Murkomen instructed Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja and the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) to leverage all available technology and resources.
“When we deal with goons, don’t come out and say they belong to your political party. The Inspector General is properly directed to ensure these people are dealt with ruthlessly,” he warned, urging officers to safeguard the nation.
“You know your job. Please do your job. Protect our country from all these criminals. You now have the technology; we are supporting you, and we want to buy more equipment. Make our country safe by dealing with these criminals and deal with them ruthlessly.”
