Why the north has become a playground for criminal gangs

An inquiry by the Parliament Committee on Administration and National Security into the security situation in the North Rift region paints a grim picture.

The report, released on August 13, reveals that the six counties most affected by banditry are patrolled by only 43 police officers, who lack the modern equipment necessary to combat well-armed and organized criminal gangs. The officers are further hampered by poor road networks, inadequate communication infrastructure, lack of aerial support, and complex local political dynamics that often hinder effective law enforcement.

“Additional challenges include a high level of illiteracy, insufficient numbers of security personnel, and inadequate resources for security agencies, including equipment, fuel, food rations, and allowances,” the report states. The lack of sufficient resources has made it nearly impossible for security forces to effectively respond to the escalating threat posed by these criminal gangs.

The government’s response has been to increase its security presence in the region. Following his election in 2022, President William Ruto vowed to tackle the banditry problem head-on. His administration has since deployed specialized officers to support ongoing operations in the North Rift.

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These efforts have been spearheaded by Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki, who has made several visits to the affected areas, including Meru, Laikipia, Baringo, Samburu, Isiolo, Elgeyo Marakwet, and Marsabit, to reassure local communities and security agencies of the government’s commitment to restoring order.

On March 5, 2024, speaking at the Sarar GSU Camp in Elgeyo Marakwet, Kindiki issued a stern warning to the bandits, likening them to terrorists.

“We are bringing in special forces to help us deal with the hardcore commanders of banditry. To ruthlessly pursue the livestock rustlers, we are deploying the same measures we’ve used to tackle terrorism,” Kindiki declared.

“There is no difference between bandits and terrorists. Their ideology is the same, and they must be shown no mercy.”

Despite these strong words, the parliamentary report says the gangs, largely made up of illiterate herders, are primarily motivated by the desire to control livestock, natural resources, and land. These herders have established strongholds in the remote and inaccessible gorges, mountains valleys and forest, from where they launch attacks on neighbouring communities.

The report also underscores the audacity of the gangs, who have not only targeted private ranches but also police officers and national government administrative officers. Their actions have resulted in numerous deaths, the displacement of entire communities, and the theft of thousands of cattle, leading to significant economic losses in the region.

Gabriel Tongoyo, the chairperson of the parliamentary committee that conducted the inquiry, expressed deep concern over the long-standing nature of the problem.

“For many years, criminal activities in these counties have led to economic losses, injuries, and displacement of families,” Tongoyo said.

He further revealed that over 5,000 families have been displaced by government operations aimed at combating banditry, with an additional 3,000 people now living under trees, having been forced to flee their homes. Another group has retreated to the forests to escape the dry season, exacerbating the already dire humanitarian situation.

Tongoyo also criticized the government’s approach to dealing with the issue, accusing it of committing human rights abuses in the process. He cited instances where locals have been displaced and denied access to basic necessities such as food, healthcare, and shelter.

“The government’s actions have led to the violation of human rights, leaving the most vulnerable members of society in an even worse situation,” Tongoyo said.

The report further highlights the impact of the insecurity on education in the region, with many schools having been closed down due to violence.

“A significant number of students cannot attend school as institutions have been closed due to insecurity,” the report notes.

This has left a generation of children at risk of missing out on education, which could have long-term effects on the region’s development.

The inquiry, which was conducted over nine months from August 2023 to April 2024, also points to the root causes of the conflicts that have plagued the region.

“Conflicts have arisen from escalating competition for land, water, and natural resources, as herders forcibly encroach on private land,” the report explains.

The government’s deployment of military and police personnel in 2023 was initially scheduled to last for six months, with a provision for an extension if necessary. However, the report indicates that despite these efforts, criminal activities continue unabated, and the situation remains volatile.

“The region has faced persistent insecurity stemming from long-standing cattle rustling and banditry, as criminal gangs intensify attacks against residents, security personnel, government facilities, and motorists on highways, leading to significant displacement and economic disruption,” the report states.

“The frequent assaults have resulted in property damage, vandalism of schools, and reduced economic activity, posing a serious security challenge.”

The report describes the situation as turbulent and insecure, noting that between February and April 2023, a total of 491 cases of insecurity were reported.

“Overall, primary causes of conflict and criminal activities, such as banditry, theft, and violence, remain rooted in resource disputes, political instigation, cultural significance, and inter-communal conflicts,” the report adds.

Police operations in the region face numerous challenges, including vast and rugged terrains that hinder mobility, a lack of aerial response to track bandits, poor communication networks, and the availability of illegal arms. Local political dynamics and poor road networks further complicate the situation.

The report calls for urgent and comprehensive measures to address the root causes of insecurity in the region, emphasizing that only a multifaceted approach will ensure a peaceful and stable future for the affected communities.

It calls for the establishment of schools, police stations and administrative offices in the region.