The government has intensified a crackdown on criminal gangs and goons in Homa Bay County, with Interior and National Administration Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo warning that both perpetrators and their sponsors will face decisive action.
Omollo said security agencies were prepared to restore peace and protect traders from intimidation, harassment and disruptions to business activities.
Speaking on Sunday during an empowerment event for traders in Ndhiwa East Sub-County, the PS said the government would not allow criminal elements to undermine security and economic activities in the county.
“Our security agencies are ready to deal with the criminals who have breached peace in this county,” Omollo said.
He warned individuals targeting businesspeople that their actions would not be tolerated, adding that security agencies were determined to protect traders and their enterprises.
“Those criminal elements who harass our business community by intimidating them, we are coming for you,” he said.
Omollo called on young people to shun crime and pursue legitimate economic activities, noting that criminal behaviour would only undermine their future prospects and the county’s development.
“We are telling young people that crime does not pay. It is important to engage in meaningful economic activities to earn a living,” he said.
The PS emphasised that businesses played a crucial role in economic growth and improving household welfare, saying traders deserved respect and a secure environment in which to operate.
He noted that income from businesses enabled families to educate their children, build homes and meet other personal needs.
Omollo also urged traders to take advantage of government-backed financial programmes, including the Hustler Fund, to expand their businesses and improve their livelihoods.
He said the financial support provided during the empowerment event was not sufficient on its own to sustain business growth, urging beneficiaries to seek additional funding opportunities and invest wisely.
“Nobody can give you money to do a business. The financial support I am giving you today is inadequate. You need to utilise government funds meant for empowering businesspersons to ensure the growth of your enterprises,” he said.
Lang’ata MP Phelix Odiwuor condemned youth involved in activities that threatened public safety, warning that no individual should exploit difficult circumstances to disrupt peace.
He cautioned young people against engaging in criminal behaviour, including actions linked to substance abuse, and said the Government would respond firmly to those responsible.
More than 40 youths suspected of involvement in goonism have been arrested in Homa Bay County over the past week as security agencies step up efforts to curb criminal activities.
By Davis Langat
