Authorities in Trans Nzoia have arrested 46 suspects as part of a crackdown, while 57 others have been ordered to surrender.
In Trans Nzoia County, a security crackdown is underway as authorities grapple with growing concerns that criminal gangs are gaining ground, threatening the safety and stability of the region.
A total of 46 suspected gang members have already been arrested, but 57 others are still on the run. The security agencies have issued a stern warning to these individuals: surrender or face the consequences. If they fail to do so, the authorities will go after them wherever they may be hiding.
The County Commissioner, Gideon Oyagi, has been vocal about his stance against these criminal activities. He has warned politicians believed to be financing the gangs that the government will act against them. However, no verified public information has confirmed which politicians in Trans Nzoia County are suspected of providing money to the street gangs.
Residents of Lukhuna have raised concerns that the gangs are being supported by local politicians. Anthony Masika, a resident, alleged that gang members were sworn in at a forest on the outskirts of Kitale. He claimed that these gang members rob people of their phones and demand M-Pesa passwords while holding knives to their throats.
To combat this issue, the government is conducting thorough investigations. They are tracking communication networks and mobile money transactions linked to the suspects. The County Police Commander, Moses Mutisia, has vowed that criminal gangs will be dealt with firmly within the confines of the law. He assured that Kenya would not be overrun by gangs like in Haiti.
The Trans Nzoia Deputy Criminal Investigations Officer (DCIO), John Kanda, has been urging the 57 suspects still on the run to surrender voluntarily. He assured that witnesses willing to testify against the gangs will be fully protected. The Trans Nzoia County Criminal Investigations Officer (CCIO), Josphat Ndung'u, also assured that suspects, once arraigned, will not be granted bail.
Elisha Kalai, another resident, appealed to parents to take responsibility in guiding their children away from crime. He stated that life is sacred, and no human being has the right to take another's life. His sentiments were echoed by Kalai, who urged the community to stand together against these criminal activities.
As the security crackdown continues, the residents of Trans Nzoia County can only hope for a safer and more stable future. The authorities are working tirelessly to ensure that the criminal gangs are brought to justice, and the rule of law is upheld.
