The Kenyan government has intensified its crackdown on dangerous criminal groups and gangs that are increasingly engaging in political violence and threatening national security as the country heads towards the 2027 General Election. According to a report by the Ministry of Interior, the number of such groups has risen from 89 to 109 across the country. This surge has raised concerns over the spread of the gangs across different parts of Kenya.
The Western region leads with 38 criminal groups, followed by Rift Valley with 22 and Nairobi with 20. Other regions, including Nyanza and Coast, have 12 and 11 groups respectively, while Eastern has three, North Eastern two, and Central has one group. The government attributes the rapid growth of these groups to frequent cases of unrest and raids by dangerous gangs.
The Interior Ministry report reveals that 1,827 suspects linked to the groups, including goons, have been arrested this year. Trans Nzoia County recorded the highest number of arrests at 491. A total of 729 suspects have been convicted, while 716 cases are still before the courts. The government vows to deal with the groups, with Deputy President Kithure Kindiki stating that it will not rest until it addresses the issue.
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki emphasized the government's commitment to tackling the gangs, saying that it will work with elders to calm parts of Kenya and move away from tribal politics. Kindiki, as the spokesperson of Mount Kenya, aims to ensure security in the region and prevent the political use of youth and criminal gangs.
The rise of these gangs has been linked to the increasing cases of political violence and unrest in the country. With the 2027 General Election approaching, the government faces pressure to maintain security and prevent further escalation of violence. The Ministry of Interior's report highlights the need for a comprehensive approach to address the issue.
The government has established that the situation is getting worse by the day, with investigations revealing a worrying trend. The Deputy President's call for the complete elimination of dangerous gangs in the Mount Kenya region underscores the government's determination to tackle the issue.
As the country prepares for the 2027 polls, the government's efforts to deal with the gangs will be crucial in maintaining security and preventing further violence. The Ministry of Interior's report and the government's response will be key in addressing the issue and ensuring a peaceful election process.
Key points
- The Kenyan government has reported a surge in illegal criminal gangs to 109, with Western region leading.
- 1,827 suspects linked to the gangs have been arrested this year, with 729 convicted.
- The government vows to tackle the gangs, with Deputy President Kithure Kindiki emphasizing the need for a comprehensive approach.
