Murkomen gives update after ordering crackdown on Trans Nzoia goons
By Faith Lagat, April 17, 2026Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has reiterated the government’s commitment to intensifying operations against political violence, criminal gangs and what he described as organised goonism, following ongoing security operations in parts of Trans Nzoia County and Nairobi.
While speaking during an event in Kimilili Town, Bungoma County, on Friday, April 17, 2026, Murkomen said over 200 persons of interest have been arrested and arraigned in a targeted operation in Kitale and surrounding areas linked to disruptions of public activities, including voter registration exercises.
Kitale security operation and arrests
Murkomen said a specialised police unit deployed earlier in the week in Kitale has been conducting sustained operations in response to complaints from residents over the disruption of public events.
He noted that the team has already arrested and processed more than 200 individuals involved in organised violence and intimidation activities.
“We will continue to deal with political violence, goonism, and criminal gangs decisively until our country is fully rid of these threats,” Murkomen stated.
He added that the security team will remain in the area until stability is restored. He also said similar coordinated operations in Nairobi have resulted in more than 100 arrests in related crackdowns targeting groups linked to violence during gatherings and political events.
Political involvement and security directives
Murkomen raised concerns over what he termed the involvement of some political actors in mobilising armed groups to disrupt opponents’ activities. He said intelligence reports are being compiled to identify individuals sponsoring such groups.
“Goons and gangs is becoming a matter of great concern. It doesn’t come to me by surprise, but the scale and the extent of engagement by elected leaders and aspiring leaders is of great concern to us,” he said.
He further stated: “For far too long we have handled leaders with kids club. It is time now to face them head-on to ensure that we exterminate the issue of goons before it runs over our country by the next elections.”
He directed Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja to ensure strict enforcement of measures targeting organised groups used in political violence.
Kimilili remarks and nationwide enforcement
He said the government is also expanding enforcement measures against alcohol and drug trafficking networks as part of broader security interventions. The initiatives include enhanced border screening, interdiction operations, and monitoring of distribution channels.
“This idea that every leader has to have some people going around with them… trying to harass Kenyans should stop. People should exercise their democratic right in a peaceful environment,” he emphasised.
Kipchumba Murkomen called on leaders across the political divide to support ongoing security operations and promote peaceful political engagement as the country prepares for future electoral activities.
Security operations are ongoing in multiple hotspots, including Kitale and Nairobi, as part of coordinated national enforcement measures.