Interior Cabinet Secretary Onesmus Kipchumba Murkomen has vowed a sustained crackdown on criminal gangs and drug trafficking in Homa Bay County, terming them a major threat to security and public health.
Speaking to journalists after a courtesy call at the Homa Bay County Commissioner’s office, Murkomen raised concerns over the inflow of contraband goods saying that the county’s porous border has made it a hotspot for contraband goods, including illicit alcohol, narcotics, and adulterated products.
“Because of the nature of the border, a lot of contraband goods find way into Homa Bay. Some of these goods that are brought here are substandard, including adulterated alcohol, drugs, and marijuana, which is a matter of great concern,” he said.
The CS revealed that a multi-agency security team is already in place to intensify operations against illicit alcohol and narcotics, saying their efforts will be expanded with greater community involvement.
On criminal gangs, the CS commended security officers for curbing attacks involving machete- and club-wielding goons, noting their progress in the crackdown of these groups.
He confirmed that several suspects have been arrested, with some already convicted while others still facing ongoing trials.
“This county has suffered from criminal gangs for a long time. I am happy with the progress made by our security team. Many cases related to gangs have gone down because of our cooperation with the public, especially the youth,” he added.
On the boda sector, the CS urged riders to embrace self-regulation through organised saccos. He directed that their leaders be incorporated into sub-county security meetings.
He said this would enhance accountability and that their inclusion in local security committees will help deter infiltration by criminal gangs.
Murkomen also informed that the government is investing in the modernisation of the Coast Guard and Border Patrol Unit to strengthen security in Lake Victoria.
“Our concern is the strength we have in the Coast Guard and border patrol unit. We have agreed that we need more boats to man the lake and ensure security,” said the CS.
He praised President William Ruto’s engagement with Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni on the joint management of Lake Victoria, noting that the bilateral talks will help resolve competition, border disputes, and harassment of fishermen.
By Sitna Omar
