By Kepher Otieno - Reporter
Kenya, 1 July 2026 - Kisumu County has unveiled an aggressive six-point security strategy aimed at dismantling criminal gangs, restoring public confidence and protecting businesses, in what authorities describe as one of the county's most coordinated anti-crime operations in recent years.
The comprehensive plan, adopted during a Joint County Security Committee meeting co-chaired by Governor Prof. Anyang' Nyong'o and County Commissioner Mohammed Mwabudzo, signals a tougher approach against organised gangs that have increasingly been blamed for disrupting business, extorting traders and undermining public safety.
Security officials say the renewed offensive is designed not only to improve law and order but also to position Kisumu as a safer destination for investors, tourists and residents.
"We have agreed on decisive measures to enhance public safety, upscale surveillance and eliminate criminal elements across Kisumu County," Mwabudzo said after the meeting.
"This is a coordinated effort involving both the National Government and the County Government, and we are committed to ensuring that residents live and conduct their businesses in a secure environment."
At the heart of the strategy is an uncompromising crackdown on criminal gangs masquerading as security providers during political rallies and public gatherings.
Authorities warned that only recognised state security agencies will be permitted to provide security at public events, effectively shutting the door on groups accused of intimidating political opponents and extorting organisers.
"No one should live in fear because of criminal gangs operating under the guise of providing security," Mwabudzo said.
"We are putting in place measures to ensure every resident, investor and visitor feels safe in Kisumu."
The county will also intensify operations within the public transport sector, where security agencies believe criminal networks have infiltrated some matatu operations. Joint enforcement teams comprising police and transport SACCOs will identify and remove rogue operators linked to crime.
Businesses found financing or facilitating criminal activities face the loss of operating licences and permits, marking a significant escalation in the county's campaign against organised crime. Officials believe targeting the financial lifelines of criminal networks will weaken their influence while protecting legitimate enterprises.
Technology will form another pillar of the new security architecture.
The county plans to install high-definition CCTV cameras in residential estates, commercial centres and strategic public spaces to provide round-the-clock surveillance and generate digital evidence for criminal investigations.
The surveillance programme will be implemented jointly with the National Government as authorities increasingly embrace technology-driven policing.
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Two days ago, Kisumu County woman Rep Ruth odinga called for security summit bringing on board all county leaders and security officials.
Odinga decried complaints and isolated cases of insecurity witnessed in parts of the county and asked the security apparatus to find ways of reducing the crime rates.
She was speaking during the distribution of assorted merchandise and equipment worth KSh 1.8 million to juakali artisans and youth and women groups across the county of Kisumu at Juakali sheds in the City.
The County security team said, to strengthen intelligence gathering at the grassroots, Kisumu will establish Village Security Committees and neighbourhood security structures to deepen collaboration between communities and law enforcement agencies.
Officials say the committees will enhance community policing, improve information sharing and enable quicker responses to emerging security threats before they escalate.
Mwabudzo appealed to Kisumu City residents to become active partners in the security campaign by reporting suspicious activities and cooperating with police.
"Security is a shared responsibility. We call upon members of the public to remain vigilant, report suspicious activities promptly and support our security officers as we work together to make Kisumu safer for everyone," he explained.
The strategy comes as counties across Kenya grapple with rising concerns over organised criminal gangs, prompting governments to tighten security measures to protect businesses, investments and public infrastructure.
For Kisumu, the campaign carries significant economic implications.
The lakeside city has in recent years positioned itself as Western Kenya's commercial and investment hub, attracting billions of shillings in public infrastructure and private sector investments. Analysts say sustained insecurity could undermine that momentum by discouraging investors and increasing the cost of doing business.
In combining intelligence-led policing, community participation, tougher enforcement against criminal enterprises and modern surveillance technology, county leaders hope to dismantle organised gangs while reinforcing confidence that Kisumu remains open for business.
Governor Nyong'o, senior national government administrators, the National Police Service and county officials pledged continued collaboration, arguing that lasting security can only be achieved through coordinated action between government agencies and local communities.