Kisumu declares war on gangs after deadly Milimani violence claims 2 lives
By Mustafa Juma, July 13, 2026Kisumu County has announced an intensified crackdown on organised criminal gangs following a deadly clash in the Milimani area that left two young men dead, with authorities warning that those behind the violence, including financiers and political sponsors, will face the full force of the law.
In a statement issued on Monday, July 13, 2026, the County Security Committee, co-chaired by Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o, said the violence witnessed on Sunday was not an isolated act of youthful indiscipline but organised criminal activity that posed a serious threat to public safety, economic development and the rule of law.
The committee confirmed that eight suspects arrested in connection with the incident were expected to be arraigned in court, while investigations continue to identify and apprehend other individuals linked to the violence.
Two killed in violent confrontation
According to the county government, two organised criminal groups engaged in a violent confrontation within Kisumu City on Sunday, resulting in the deaths of two young men.
Authorities said the incident had plunged families into mourning and highlighted the growing danger posed by organised criminal gangs operating within the county.
“The County Security Committee has resolved that organised criminal activity will be confronted with the full force of the law. What occurred in Milimani was organised criminal conduct, and it will be investigated and prosecuted accordingly,” the statement read.
Officials warned that Kisumu would no longer provide a haven for criminal gangs or individuals involved in violence on behalf of political or commercial interests.
“There will be no sanctuary in Kisumu County. Those responsible will be identified, arrested, prosecuted and held fully accountable under the law,” the committee stated.
Eight suspects to face charges
The county government confirmed that eight suspects had already been arrested over the deadly confrontation and would be presented before court.
Investigators are also collecting additional evidence, including videos and other digital material circulating on social media, as they seek to build cases against more suspects.
Authorities cautioned that those involved should not assume they would escape justice simply because the crimes occurred in chaotic public settings.
Politicians warned against sponsoring violence
In one of the strongest warnings contained in the statement, the County Security Committee cautioned politicians against recruiting or financing criminal gangs for political purposes.
The committee said political competition must never become a justification for sponsoring violence or exploiting unemployed youth to settle political scores.
It warned that investigators would not only pursue those directly involved in violent attacks but also individuals who organise, finance, facilitate or protect criminal groups.
“Anyone found financing, organising or facilitating acts of violence, directly or indirectly, will face the full consequences of the law. Responsibility extends beyond those who wield weapons to those who provide resources, direction or protection,” the statement said.
More than 200 arrested
The county also disclosed that an ongoing security operation launched by the County Security Committee has already led to the arrest of more than 200 suspects believed to be linked to various criminal activities across Kisumu.
Officials said the operation would continue until organised criminal networks are dismantled and public confidence in security restored.
The committee argued that criminal violence not only endangers lives but also undermines investment, disrupts businesses and discourages economic growth.
“Violence discourages investment, disrupts commerce, undermines enterprise and erodes employment opportunities for the very young people who should be the principal beneficiaries of economic growth,” the statement noted.
Police commended
The county government praised the National Police Service for its response during Sunday’s violence, particularly around St. Stephen’s ACK Cathedral and St. Joseph Catholic Church, saying officers prevented further loss of life through prompt intervention.
Authorities said the professionalism displayed by security officers helped contain the situation before it escalated further.
The latest incident adds to growing concerns over criminal gangs operating in parts of Kisumu, where security agencies have in recent months intensified operations targeting organised crime, drug trafficking, violent robberies and politically instigated violence.
County and national security officials have repeatedly warned that criminal gangs are increasingly being exploited by political actors during periods of heightened political activity, prompting calls for tougher enforcement ahead of future political events.
The government has maintained that restoring law and order remains critical to protecting businesses, attracting investment and ensuring Kisumu remains a safe destination for residents, visitors and investors.