Cabinet Secretary for Interior and National Administration Kipchumba Murkomen has reassured citizens that the nation remains secure, with security forces maintaining constant vigilance against potential threats.
With the election campaign season approaching, he called upon leaders to unite and work together to ensure campaigns remain free from violent groups, protecting the nation’s peace and stability.
Addressing the National Assembly Departmental Committee on Administration and Internal Security at Nairobi’s County Hall, the CS reiterated the government’s dedication to upholding law and order throughout the country.
Joined by Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja and Director of Criminal Investigations Mohamed Amin, the CS highlighted that concerns about gangs and organized criminal groups have frequently been raised, including in recent Jukwaa la Usalama forums nationwide.
‘The challenge posed by gangs and violent groups represents not merely a security issue, but a collective national duty. Leaders, communities, and security agencies must unite to effectively eliminate this menace,’ he emphasized.
The committee received an update on the national security situation, covering crime patterns over the last six months, areas with high crime rates, strategies to address violent crime, improvements in surveillance technology, and the nation’s emergency preparedness capabilities.
The CS reported that the general security environment remains mostly stable, with significant reductions in reported crime over recent months. However, specific challenges continue, including banditry in parts of the North Rift and Upper Eastern regions, terrorism threats in North Eastern, and growing gang activities in urban centers like Nakuru, Nairobi, and Mombasa.
‘Investigative bodies are thoroughly pursuing those responsible for gang-related violence, with multiple cases reaching advanced stages,’ he stated.
The CS revealed that three individuals suspected in the attack on Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi have been apprehended, while others are said to have escaped the country.
‘We are collaborating with security agencies in neighboring nations to guarantee that all suspects who left the country will be apprehended and face justice.’
The CS restated the government’s unwavering commitment to protecting all citizens, maintaining national stability, and ensuring a peaceful atmosphere throughout the electoral process and its aftermath.