By Ummy Francis | April 10, 2026
NAIROBI, KENYA — Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo has issued a strong warning to criminal gangs and their alleged political sponsors, stating that the government will take firm action against rising cases of politically linked violence.
PS Omollo said the Ministry of Interior is shifting from cautionary statements to enforcement, noting that individuals involved in organizing or funding violent groups will face legal consequences.
“We will not tolerate the use of criminal gangs to intimidate citizens or settle political disputes,” he said.
The warning follows the recent assault on Godfrey Osotsi, the Vihiga Senator, who was attacked by a group of youths at a shopping mall in Kisumu earlier this week. The incident, captured on CCTV, triggered widespread public concern.
PS Omollo dismissed claims linking the Interior Ministry to the attack, describing such allegations as misleading and politically motivated.
Investigations have pointed to a growing pattern of organized groups being mobilized and transported to political events, raising concerns among security agencies.
Authorities are also monitoring criminal outfits, including the so-called “Chude Chude” group, believed to be part of a wider network of gangs operating within political spaces.
The Principal Secretary emphasized that enforcement efforts will target all individuals involved, regardless of their position or influence.
“No one is above the law. Anyone found sponsoring or organizing such activities will face the full force of the law,” he stated.
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has already arrested several suspects linked to the Kisumu incident, with investigations ongoing.
Security agencies have also been directed to take action against individuals carrying weapons such as machetes and clubs at public gatherings.
The Ministry of Interior has called on members of the public to remain alert and report any suspicious or organized criminal activity as part of ongoing efforts to address political violence.
The directive signals a broader government push to restore order and curb the use of hired groups in political engagements across the country.
