Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has issued a firm warning to politicians allegedly financing criminal gangs in Kwale County and other regions, stating they will be arrested.
His remarks came during his ongoing Jukwaa La Usalama Coastal Region tour, where he emphasized that a major crackdown is underway to apprehend individuals funding criminal activities under the guise of community support.
Murkomen’s statement followed a closed-door security briefing with regional and county security teams, where he outlined intensified operations targeting those using political influence to support gangs.
“We have credible intelligence about certain politicians holding secret meetings with youths under the pretext of helping them. If these meetings are truly for the benefit of the community, they should take place in broad daylight,” Murkomen said. He added that such gatherings often lead to violence, with youths engaging in attacks and other criminal activities.
“We are taking action, and we are committed to ensuring the safety of the public. Chiefs, their assistants, and other security personnel have been given clear instructions to deal with these criminal elements—no one will be spared,” he declared.
Murkomen also highlighted the disturbing involvement of young people in gangs like the Panga Boys, many of whom, he pointed out, should still be in school.
He revealed a multi-agency approach to tackle the issue, stressing that the government is not only targeting the criminals but also their financiers.
The CS further vowed to collaborate closely with the judiciary to ensure that those arrested for gang-related activities face the full extent of the law.
“When these criminals are arrested and later released by the courts, they return to society emboldened. This time, it won’t be business as usual. We will ensure the cases are airtight to guarantee successful prosecution,” he warned.
Murkomen also cautioned law enforcement officers suspected of colluding with criminals, stating they would face disciplinary action.
Throughout his tour, Murkomen outlined his priorities for the Kwale region, which include addressing criminal gangs, reducing school dropout rates, resolving land disputes, strengthening border security, and combating drug abuse and human trafficking.
He also identified wildlife conflicts, mining issues, and substance abuse as key areas of focus in his efforts to stabilize the region.