Kisumu unveils six-point plan to tackle criminal gangs and insecurity
By Viola Kosome, July 1, 2026Kisumu County has unveiled a six-point security action plan targeting criminal gangs, rogue businesses and insecurity hotspots as authorities step up efforts to restore law and order across the county.
The resolutions were adopted on July 1, 2026, during a Joint County Security Committee meeting co-chaired by Kisumu Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o and County Commissioner Mohammed Mwabunzo.
The meeting brought together national and county security agencies to discuss emerging security challenges and agree on immediate interventions aimed at protecting residents, businesses and visitors.
Speaking after the meeting, Mwabunzo said the county would implement coordinated measures to improve public safety through collaboration between the National Government and the County Government.
“We have agreed on decisive measures to enhance public safety, upscale surveillance and eliminate criminal elements across Kisumu County. This is a coordinated effort involving both the National and County Governments, and we are committed to ensuring that residents live and conduct their businesses in a secure environment,” he said.
Committee targets criminal gangs and rogue businesses
Among the key resolutions was a crackdown on criminal gangs operating under the guise of providing security at political meetings and public events.
Mwabunzo said the county would not allow unregulated groups associated with goonism to operate, adding that organisers of political meetings and public functions would continue receiving security through established government structures.
“No one should live in fear because of criminal gangs operating under the guise of providing security. We are putting in place measures to ensure every resident, investor and visitor feels safe in Kisumu,” he said.
The committee also resolved to streamline the matatu sector through joint operations involving public transport SACCOs and security agencies to remove criminal elements operating within the industry.
Businesses found to be facilitating or participating in criminal activities will have their licences and operating permits withdrawn as part of the county’s renewed campaign against crime.
Officials said the measures are intended to disrupt criminal networks while protecting legitimate businesses operating within the county.
Community policing and CCTV surveillance
To strengthen intelligence gathering, the committee approved the establishment of Village Security Committees and neighbourhood committees to improve collaboration between communities and security agencies.
According to the committee, the grassroots structures will enhance information sharing, strengthen community policing and improve responses to emerging security threats.
The county also plans to expand the use of technology in crime prevention through the installation of high-definition CCTV cameras in partnership with the National Government.
“High definition surveillance cameras will be strategically installed in residential estates, business centres and other key public areas to provide real-time monitoring and generate evidence to support investigations and prosecution of criminal suspects,” said the commissioner.
The surveillance system is expected to enhance monitoring in public spaces while supporting investigations through digital evidence.
Residents urged to support security agencies
Mwabunzo called on residents to work closely with security agencies by reporting suspicious activities and supporting efforts to prevent crime across the county.
“Security is a shared responsibility. We call upon members of the public to remain vigilant, report suspicious activities promptly and support our security officers as we work together to make Kisumu safer for everyone,” he said.
He added that security agencies would continue conducting intelligence-led operations while upholding the rule of law and respecting the rights of all citizens.
Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o, Kisumu City Manager Abala Wanga, senior officers from the National Government Administration, the National Police Service and county government officials attended the meeting.
The leaders reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cooperation between the National Government, the County Government and local communities to protect lives and property while creating a secure environment for economic growth and development.
The committee expressed confidence that the coordinated approach will help dismantle organised criminal gangs, improve public safety and strengthen confidence in Kisumu’s security systems.