The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has stepped up efforts to address rising cases of hooliganism and gang activity in Kenya’s Western Region through high-level security engagements.

IPOA Commissioner Jackline Mwenesi convened a series of meetings with regional security actors, including Paul Murkomen and senior police officials, in a coordinated push to restore order and strengthen public confidence in law enforcement.

“Commissioner Jackline Mwenesi has intensified high-level security engagements in Kenya’s Western Region, bringing together key actors to confront rising hooliganism and gang activity,” IPOA wrote in an X post on April 29, 2026.

“Working alongside Regional Coordinator Paul Murkomen and senior security officials, she held strategic talks with regional police leadership and the Busia County Security Committee.”

Measures to curb crime

According to IPOA, the officers focus on proactive measures to curb crime and further address the underlying tensions between the police and the public, issues that frequently trigger complaints to oversight bodies.

Mwenesi said the need for early intervention and multi-agency collaboration, particularly as the country gears up for the 2027 General Election. She warned that failure to act decisively could escalate insecurity and undermine public trust during the electoral period.

“The discussions centred on proactive measures to curb crime and ease tensions between the police and the public/issues that often trigger complaints to oversight bodies,” IPOA said.

Readiness ahead of 2027 polls

IPOA said the initiative aligns with its mandate of safeguarding public interest in policing, even as concerns over accountability and the use of force continue to feature prominently in complaints lodged by members of the public.

Authorities expressed optimism that the renewed collaboration will help create a safer environment in the region and set the tone for peaceful electoral processes in the run-up to 2027.

“With the 2027 General Election on the horizon, the Commissioner emphasised early prevention and coordinated action as critical to maintaining stability. The engagements build on earlier preparatory meetings led by regional leadership, signalling a unified push toward a safer, more secure Kenya.” IPOA noted.