Suspects linked to criminal gangs operating in Trans-Nzoia arrested

Deputy Inspector General of Police Gilbert Masengeli, addresses the press on 7th August 2024 at Jogoo House in Nairobi. [Edward Kiplimo, Standard]

Several suspected members of criminal gangs blamed for violence in TransNzoia have been arrested as the government intensifies operations to weed out criminal gangs in the county.

Deputy Inspector General of Police Gilbert Masengeli on Sunday confirmed that security agents had apprehended some suspects linked to hooliganism and violence.

Speaking at Naisambu Seventh Day Adventist SDA Church in Kiminini constituency, when he presided over a fund drive in aid of the construction of church offices, the DIG assured that the government would not relent in the fight against crime.

He issued a stern warning to individuals, including political leaders orchestrating crime, adding that security agents are determined to dismantle the criminal ring operating in the county.

Without providing the number of those arrested, Masengeli said a manhunt has been scaled up to bring to book all those involved in the crime ring.

"Our duty is to provide security to Kenyans. We have the responsibility to protect the country from crime, and we are not going to relent on the war against crime," vowed Masengeli.

The DIG asked Kenyans to support the security agents in fighting crime by exposing those involved in criminal activities.

"When you see someone committing a felony, don't hide such people but report them to the police so that they face the law," said Masengeli.

He said a team assigned to pursue the criminal gangs in the county is committed to ending the menace, adding the leader would be spared from being implicated in financing the gangs.

Kwanza MP Ferdinand Wanyonyi welcomed police action, urging the arrest of any politicians linked to the gang groups.

Wanyonyi, who spoke at the same function, termed as primitive for leaders to enlist goons.