The government has identified 109 organised criminal gangs and groups across Kenya and warned of intensified action against individuals and networks involved in violence, intimidation and other criminal activities.
The announcement comes ahead of the 2027 General Election, with the government raising concerns over the alleged mobilisation of organised youth groups for political intimidation and violence.
According to a statement by Principal Secretary for Internal Security and National Administration Raymond Omollo, the 109 groups include 38 in Western Kenya, 22 in the Rift Valley, 20 in Nairobi, 12 in Nyanza, 11 in the Coast region, three in Eastern, two in North-Eastern and one in Central Kenya.
The government says 1,827 suspects were arrested and arraigned between January and August 2026 over offences related to goonism and organised criminal activity. A total of 729 convictions were secured, while 716 cases are still before the courts.
Security agencies have been directed to focus on the wider networks behind organised crime, including those who recruit, finance or direct criminal groups. Authorities say financial investigations will also be used to trace proceeds linked to extortion, robbery, illegal businesses and other organised crimes.
The government has further warned that individuals who attempt to use criminal gangs to disrupt political activities or intimidate citizens will face lawful action, regardless of their political affiliations.
At the same time, authorities say enforcement will be accompanied by prevention, rehabilitation and reintegration programmes targeting young people who have been drawn into criminal groups.
The government is encouraging young people to take advantage of programmes supporting employment, enterprise development and access to finance, including NYOTA and the Hustler Fund.
Members of the public have also been urged to provide information on suspected criminal activity through the Fichua kwa DCI initiative and police emergency lines.
