Murkomen Blames Politicians for Rise in Criminal Gangs
Kenya’s Interior Cabinet Secretary, Kipchumba Murkomen, has alleged that some politicians are behind the recent surge in criminal gangs operating in parts of the country.
Speaking on security concerns, Murkomen said intelligence reports indicate that certain political actors are allegedly financing and shielding youth gangs for political gain, particularly ahead of heightened political activity and future elections.
He warned that the government would not tolerate the use of criminal groups to intimidate communities or disrupt public order, adding that security agencies have been directed to intensify crackdowns on gang networks and their sponsors.
The Interior Ministry says the proliferation of organized youth gangs has become a growing concern in urban centres, where groups are increasingly linked to extortion, violent crime, and political mobilization during rallies and protests.
Murkomen stressed that investigations are ongoing to identify those behind the networks, insisting that accountability will extend beyond street-level perpetrators to any individuals found to be funding or directing their activities.
The remarks come amid broader concerns over security and political tensions in Kenya, where authorities have been seeking to curb rising cases of organized crime and politically linked violence.
Security agencies have pledged intensified operations in affected areas as the government moves to dismantle gang structures and prevent further escalation.
