Kisumu County Commissioner raises alarm over resurgence of criminal gangs

Kisumu County Commissioner Raises Alarm Over Resurgence of Criminal Gangs
Kisumu County Commissioner Josephine Ouko has issued a stern warning over the resurgence of organized criminal gangs in the region, urging heightened security vigilance from both the public and law enforcement agencies. The announcement follows a recent spike in violent incidents linked to gang activity, raising concerns about a potential return of the organized crime networks that have previously plagued the lakeside county.
According to the County Commissioner, intelligence reports indicate that these groups, some of which are reconstituting under new names and leadership, are involved in a range of illegal activities. These include armed robbery, extortion from businesses and public transport operators, and violent assaults. The gangs are said to be recruiting idle youth, taking advantage of high unemployment rates and social vulnerabilities.
Commissioner Ouko directed sub-county security committees to intensify patrols, gather actionable intelligence, and work closely with community elders and the public to dismantle the emerging networks. We are calling on residents to share information with the authorities and to avoid protecting criminals within their communities. Security is a shared responsibility, she emphasized.
The alarm from the Kisumu county leadership reflects broader concerns over rising gang-related crime in several parts of Western Kenya. As security operations intensify in neighboring counties such as Migori and Uasin Gishu, there are fears that criminal elements may be shifting their operations. The effectiveness of the state’s response in Kisumu will be critical in preventing the gangs from regaining a firm foothold and ensuring the safety of residents and businesses.