NAIROBI, Kenya Sep 18 – Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi has warned that organised criminal gangs and “goons” could evolve into violent extremist and terrorist groups if their activities are not closely monitored.

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Mudavadi said the growing presence of organised criminal gangs was a security concern, particularly as Kenya heads towards the 2027 General Election, when large public gatherings are expected across the country.

Speaking in Nairobi on Friday during the inauguration of the Kenya Counter-Terrorism Hotline, Mudavadi said communities and security agencies must remain alert to the activities of gangs.

“Additionally, the growth of organized criminal gangs, including goons, calls for heightened vigilance and monitoring by communities and the security agencies,” Mudavadi said.

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“These gangs must not be allowed to expand or become entrenched, as they can easily evolve from petty crime into violent extremism.”

He said communities and security agencies should closely monitor such groups because of the risk of radicalisation.

“In my view, communities and security agencies should closely monitor the activities of such gangs, given the risk of radicalization and their potential evolution into violent extremism and terrorism,” Mudavadi said.

Mudavadi, who represented President William Ruto at the event, launched the Kenya Counter-Terrorism Hotline, which is dedicated to reporting suspected radicalisation, extremism and terrorism.

Mudavadi said the hotline would give Kenyans a direct and confidential channel to share information with security agencies.

He said citizens would be able to report sensitive information anonymously and without fear of being exposed.

📰 Source: Capital FM Kenya