(Kisumu) – A growing wave of criminal activity in Kisumu City has prompted calls for urgent reform of the local security agencies. Activists and civil society organizations are pushing for an overhaul of the area’s police force, accusing law enforcement of failing to curb escalating violence and corruption. Their concerns come after a series of brutal attacks by criminal gangs, which have left several people dead and many more injured.
Human rights activist Boniface Akach, who is at the forefront of the campaign, expressed frustration with the current state of security in Kisumu. He criticized local police for being negligent in their duties, leaving residents vulnerable to gang violence. Akach pointed out that despite the government allocating resources to the police force, crime rates have continued to rise.
“We are tired of waking up to a lifeless body every day,” Akach said. “The Government has provided resources, given legal powers, and equipped the police to fight insecurity, but the police are not doing their job.”
Akach’s criticism also extended to the police stations in Kisumu, particularly in the neighborhoods of Kondele and Kasagam. He accused officers of engaging in corrupt practices, such as accepting bribes from small-scale business owners, while criminal gangs continue to terrorize the area.
“When you go to Kondele and Kasagam Police stations, police vehicles can be seen going around collecting bribes from small traders while criminals roam freely,” Akach said, emphasizing that this corruption undermines the police’s ability to protect the community.
Speaking at the Kisumu Law Courts, Akach called for the immediate overhaul of all security agencies in Kisumu. He demanded that police officers who have been stationed in the area for over three years be transferred, investigated, and held accountable for the rising crime rates.
“We are giving them seven days to act. If nothing is done, we will occupy the police stations, especially in Kondele and Kasagam, where insecurity and extortion are rampant,” Akach warned.
The human rights activist also accused the Independent Police Oversight Authority (IPOA) of failing to address complaints about police misconduct. He cited numerous allegations, including excessive use of force during anti-finance bill protests, which he claimed have been ignored.
The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) Kisumu Chapter Chair, Dorcas Akinyi, also expressed concern over the state of law enforcement. Akinyi criticized the National Police Service for losing focus, saying they were more concerned with harassing and kidnapping youths than tackling the real issue of criminal gangs.
“It is unfortunate that state resources are being misused for harassment, while criminals are allowed to operate freely,” Akinyi stated, underscoring the need for a shift in focus to address the root causes of insecurity.
In a related development, the government has moved to bolster security in Kisumu as the festive season approaches. A multi-sectoral committee, including the National Police Service, the County Government, and non-governmental organizations, has been established to address the recent spate of attacks by criminal gangs.
Kisumu City Manager, Abala Wanga, confirmed that the committee has already implemented measures to enhance security, including increased patrols and the erection of barriers in high-risk areas. These measures have begun to show positive results, with several suspects arrested and some criminals reportedly shot by police.
Wanga noted that while residential areas have been significantly impacted by recent attacks, the authorities are working tirelessly to restore safety. He added that the police presence has been strengthened in preparation for the upcoming Christmas festivities, which are expected to attract both local and international visitors to the city.
“We are doing everything we can to ensure safety during the festive season, especially with the arrival of international artistes like Koffi Olomide,” Wanga said. “We have developed a comprehensive security plan to ensure the smooth running of events like the Mzuqa Festival, where security will be tight.”
The city manager detailed specific security measures for events such as the Mzuqa Festival, including vehicle screenings and strict access control to the venue. He assured the public that safety was a top priority and encouraged those who have not yet purchased tickets for the event to do so quickly, as the event is expected to sell out.
“We want to make sure that not even a single mobile phone is stolen during the festival,” Wanga added. “All vehicles will be thoroughly screened, and a dedicated parking area for 2,000 vehicles has been created. Those using boda bodas will be required to walk to the venue after going through necessary checks.”
| Issue | Current Status | Proposed Action | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Crime | Rising criminal activity | Overhaul of security agencies | 7 days |
| Police Corruption | Bribery and negligence reported | Transfer, investigation of officers | Immediate |
| Safety Measures | Increased patrols in high-risk areas | Enhanced patrols, event security plans | Ongoing |
| Local Concerns | Lack of effective policing | Investigate misconduct, address concerns | 7 days |