CS Murkomen vows to tame land grabbers in Machakos

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has issued a firm warning to land fraudsters and grabbers operating in Machakos County, calling their activities the biggest threat to security. Speaking at the County Commissioner’s residence during the closing session of the Lower Eastern Jukwaa la Usalama tour, the CS underscored that invasions and illegal land occupations are fueling instability in the region. Kenya News
Murkomen revealed plans to collaborate with the Ministry of Lands to develop strong policies to curb land crime, including fake title deeds and collusion between politicians, officials, and criminal gangs. Kenya News+1 He said a special report will be compiled to inform a national land policy, targeting large tracts of land plagued by invasions by contracted squatters and land cartels. Kenya News+1 The Cabinet Secretary also expressed concern that Machakos, given its proximity to Nairobi, has become a refuge for criminals fleeing the capital, making it a hotbed for land-related crime. People Daily+1
Local leaders welcomed Murkomen’s commitment. Governor Wavinya Ndeti echoed his concerns, warning that court orders obtained through corrupt means have been used to evict lawful landowners. Kenya News She, therefore, called for the fast-tracking of more than 50,000 title deeds still pending in the county lands office — a move she said would safeguard legal owners. Kenya News Meanwhile, Principal Secretary Raymond Omolo emphasized that the Jukwaa la Usalama forums are vital in ensuring government accountability and stronger cooperation between security agencies and local communities. Kenya News
Looking ahead, Murkomen vowed to escalate the matter to the National Security Council, signalling that the crackdown on land cartels will be treated as a long-term security priority. People Daily+1 He also pledged to back landowners in securing their property, promising proactive engagement to help them protect their parcels from illegal takeovers. Kenya News