Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to tackling rising security concerns. He made the commitment during the Jukwaa la Usalama public engagement forum in Nakuru.

Addressing a range of issues affecting communities, Murkomen emphasized that criminal gangs pose a significant threat, primarily driven by drug and alcohol abuse.

“If we address alcohol and drugs, we can reduce their impact,” he stated, reinforcing the government’s resolve to fight drugs, stop gangs and restore safety in affected neighborhoods.

He also expressed concern over the decline in student enrolment in day schools, particularly in gang-prone areas.

“It is unfortunate that some schools have experienced a significant reduction in student numbers due to fears surrounding the presence of gangs,” he noted, pledging to enhance security to protect learning environments and safeguard students.

Murkomen announced plans to strengthen the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) unit responsible for handling human trafficking, including cases of child and sex trafficking, as part of a broader strategy to enhance community safety and uphold human rights.

At the same time, the CS issued a stern warning against corruption, which is increasingly undermining services to citizens. He specifically highlighted graft issues concerning the upcoming police recruitment exercise.

“We will not condone police officers, chiefs, assistant chiefs, or any public officer who takes bribes. We stand firm on zero tolerance to bribery,” Murkomen asserted.

In a strong stance against political instability, he condemned the propagation of incitement and hate speech, particularly by individuals seeking electoral office.

“We will not condone acts of incitement. Anyone engaging in such behavior will face stern action,” he warned, underscoring a commitment to national unity and peaceful coexistence.

Murkomen has established the Jukwaa la Usalama initiative as a platform for direct engagement with citizens on security matters that affect them.