NAIROBI, Kenya July 23 – Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has directed police and detectives to intensify the crackdown on criminal gangs, saying Kenya has now reached a national consensus that goons must be dealt with firmly.

📻 Breaking It Down

Murkomen said the problem of goonism has been exaggerated for political reasons but admitted that politicians have, over the years, used bodyguards and hired groups that later turned into violent gangs.

“I must assure the people of Kenya that this issue of goons and goonism is not as bad as being exaggerated. It is actually hyped around politics and politicians,” Murkomen said.

The Interior CS claimed that political leaders from across the divide have previously relied on such groups during political activities.

📌 What You Need to Know

He singled out the 2024 anti-government protests, alleging that some politicians, including the impeached former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, mobilised groups that later engaged in violence, including attempts to invade Parliament and attacks on businesses.

According to Murkomen, the government responded by arresting more than 3,000 suspects during the 2024 and 2025 protests.

“Over 3,000 goons were arrested. The courts released many of them on personal bonds or very small cash bail. We have been taking action,” he said.

Murkomen also claimed that some religious leaders had initially defended suspects arrested during the protests but were now supporting tougher action against criminal gangs.

He welcomed what he described as a change of position by church leaders, saying it had given police the public backing they needed to act decisively.

“I’m happy that the bishops have turned around. They now want goons to be dealt with. We now have public support from all quarters, including the religious sector.”

📰 Source: Capital FM Kenya