NAIROBI, Kenya, Oct 6— The government has identified 109 organised criminal gangs and groups operating across Kenya, warning that their growing involvement in violence and the use of organised youth groups for political intimidation could pose a serious security threat ahead of the 2027 General Election.

📻 Breaking It Down

Internal Security Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo said the number of groups identified by the government had risen from the 89 gangs declared illegal in 2016, as security agencies intensify efforts to dismantle criminal networks involved in violence, intimidation and extortion.

“Of serious concern is the use of organised youth groups for political intimidation, attacks and harassment,” Omollo said, warning that the trend risks undermining the rule of law and public confidence in governance and justice institutions.

The government said 38 of the 109 groups are in Western Kenya, 22 in the Rift Valley and 20 in Nairobi, with Nyanza accounting for 12, Coast 11, Eastern three, North-Eastern two and Central one.

📌 What You Need to Know

The heightened focus comes as the country moves closer to the 2027 polls, with security agencies warning that criminal groups could be mobilised to intimidate political opponents, disrupt political activities or perpetrate violence.

Omollo said security agencies would remain alert to such attempts and take action against criminal conduct regardless of the political interests involved.

“Those who recruit, finance or direct such groups will be held to account alongside those who carry out the violence,” he said.

Between January 1 and August 31, 2026, security agencies arrested and arraigned 1,827 suspects over offences linked to goonism and organised criminal activity.

Trans Nzoia recorded the highest number of arrests at 491, while authorities secured 729 convictions during the period.

A further 716 cases remain before the courts, with the Rift Valley accounting for 36.5 per cent of the convictions.

📰 Source: Capital FM Kenya