Machakos County has increasingly become a hotspot for a range of criminal activities, sparking concern among residents and authorities alike. According to data from the National Crime Research Centre, the county records notably higher levels of property and violent crime than the national average. Burglary and housebreaking incidents stand at 66.7%, while stealing registers at 75.2%, compared to 58.7% and 64.5% nationally. Violent offenses such as murder and robbery with violence are also elevated, with murder reported at 35.5% and violent robbery at 39%, significantly above national figures. Other crimes, including assault, rape, and gender-based violence, remain serious challenges, threatening community safety and stability.
Beyond conventional crime, Machakos faces persistent issues with land-related disputes and fraudulent practices. Reports indicate that forged land documents account for 21.1% of land-related offenses, while delays in issuing legitimate title deeds contribute to 15.8% of cases. Such disputes often fuel tension between neighbors, politicians, and local officials, sometimes escalating to violence. The problem is compounded by contracted squatters and networks allegedly working with corrupt officials, raising concerns over national security implications. Authorities, including Interior CS Kipchumba Murkomen, have repeatedly vowed to curb land grabbing and illegal occupation, calling the issue a serious threat to peace and development in Machakos. Murkomen has also committed to fast-tracking title deed issuance and collaborating with the Ministry of Lands to strengthen policies that protect legitimate landowners.
The high prevalence of both property and violent crimes, combined with systemic land disputes, presents a multifaceted security challenge. While law enforcement continues to make arrests and recover stolen property, analysts say sustainable solutions require integrated efforts—strengthening police-community partnerships, improving surveillance, ensuring timely prosecution of offenders, and addressing systemic corruption in land administration. Residents have welcomed government interventions but remain cautious, urging sustained vigilance to prevent crime from eroding social cohesion.
Looking forward, authorities in Machakos aim to implement long-term strategies to restore safety and protect landowners’ rights. By tackling both conventional crime and structural land-related fraud, county leaders hope to create a more secure environment that fosters investment, stability, and confidence among local communities.