President William Ruto has directed security agencies to intensify operations against goons and organised criminal groups across Kenya.

Speaking at State House, Nairobi, on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, Ruto said criminal conduct could not be defended as youth activism or political mobilisation.

He insisted that security agencies must protect the country while operating within the law.

Security agencies directed to act

“Now we have goons. I don’t know whether we want to say again that they are our kids,” Ruto said.

“We need to have a candid conversation about criminality, the rule of law and the security of our nation.”

The President said there could be no justification for violence, robbery or destruction of property.

“There cannot be any defence for criminality or breaking the law,” he stated.

Ruto said a previous security operation had stopped criminal activity in Nairobi. He maintained that similar action would now be taken nationally.

“I am happy that the last time we had criminality in town, we stopped it. That is now going to be the future,” he said.

“Now that we have consensus, our security agencies must do their job within the law and stop criminality.”

Ruto argued that dismantling criminal groups was necessary as the country debated its political and economic future.

“That is how we are going to secure Kenya’s future as we discuss the future of our nation,” he said.

Goonism incidents raise national concern

Ruto’s remarks come amid growing concern over gangs disrupting political and civic activities.

During the July 16, 2026, Ol Kalou by-election, masked men carrying firearms were filmed moving in unmarked vehicles. Videos showed gunshots being discharged and teargas thrown near polling stations.

Journalists and residents also reported being assaulted. The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission distanced itself from the masked individuals.

The Directorate of Criminal Investigations has since opened an inquiry to identify those who executed, planned, financed or incited the violence.

Amnesty International Kenya called for an independent investigation.

In June, a group disrupted a post-budget forum at All Saints Cathedral in Nairobi. Participants were attacked and robbed before police restored order.

Two persons of interest were apprehended as detectives began reviewing CCTV footage.

The National Police Service said investigations would identify other participants.

Armed criminality has also affected businesses.

On July 4, 2026, four gunmen riding two motorcycles stormed a restaurant along General Mathenge Road in Spring Valley. They robbed customers, fired two rounds and escaped towards Parklands.

The DCI confirmed that CCTV footage and forensic evidence were being examined. The incident was not presented as political goonism but reinforced public concern over organised criminal groups.