Government Declares Zero Tolerance on Goonism as High-Stakes Security Crackdown Intensifies

By Kepher Otieno - Reporter

Kenya, 10 April 2026 - The Government has sounded a fierce and unmistakable warning to criminal gangs and political agitators, declaring an all-out crackdown on goonism as security operations surge across volatile regions.

In a hard-hitting address, Principal Secretary for Internal Security and National Administration, Dr Raymond Omollo, made it clear that the era of impunity is over.

“Criminal gangs and political goonism are a national threat and will not be tolerated. Anyone involved — directly or indirectly — will face the full force of the law,” he declared.

Security Dragnet Tightens

The Government confirmed that intensified disarmament operations are underway, targeting illegal firearms that have fueled banditry, cattle rustling, and cross-border violence devastating pastoral communities.

Officials revealed that the ongoing mop-up exercise has already delivered major recoveries of illicit weapons, signaling early gains in a campaign set to persist until all threats are neutralised.

“We are systematically removing illegal firearms from circulation. This operation will not stop until communities are safe,” Dr Omollo emphasised.

While acknowledging concerns from local leaders regarding operational conduct, the Government maintained that public safety remains non-negotiable even as dialogue continues to refine the approach.

Justice System on Notice

In a sharp call for institutional accountability, Dr Omollo stressed the need for seamless coordination between law enforcement and the judiciary to ensure arrests translate into convictions.

“Justice must be evidence-driven and impartial. Those apprehended must be prosecuted decisively,” he stated.

Ateker Council Launched - A New Frontline for Peace

Amid the security push, a major diplomatic and community milestone was achieved with the official launch of Ateker Leaders Council – Kenya Chapter — a powerful grassroots platform uniting Ateker communities across Kenya, Uganda, South Sudan, and Ethiopia.

The Council is expected to become a game-changer in cross-border peacebuilding bringing together leaders from communities such as the Turkana and Teso to confront insecurity through dialogue, cooperation, and shared cultural identity.

“This Council is now fully operational — a vehicle for lasting peace, security, and development,” Dr Omollo announced.

Community-Driven Peace Takes Centre Stage

Development as a Security Strategy

In a bold linkage between security and socio-economic progress, the Government reaffirmed its commitment to inclusive development as the ultimate stabiliser.

Massive investments in healthcare, education, affordable housing, and livelihoods are being rolled out — particularly in historically marginalised regions like Turkana.

“No region will be left behind. Turkana’s development is a national priority,” Dr. Omollo affirmed.

Breakthrough in Civic Inclusion

In a landmark policy shift, the Government announced the removal of restrictive vetting processes that previously hindered residents of border counties from accessing national identification documents.

The reforms have already triggered a surge in ID issuance and voter registration, with Turkana County emerging as a national leader in civic uptake.

“For the first time, border communities can fully participate in national processes without unnecessary barriers,” he noted.

Bottom Line

With a dual strategy of forceful security intervention and community-led peacebuilding,, the Government is signaling a decisive turning point in the fight against goonism, banditry, and systemic marginalisation.

The message is clear: lawlessness will be crushed, communities empowered, and no part of the country left behind.