By Rodgers Omondi, Busia
The Cabinet Secretary for Interior and National Administration, Kipchumba Murkomen, has assured residents that the government has intensified security at border points to safeguard the country and curb the movement of illegal goods.
Speaking in Busia Town during the Jukwaa la Usalama (Western Edition), Murkomen said security agencies are alert to prevent revenue loss through smuggling at porous borders.
“The challenges we are facing include smuggling of contraband goods, particularly illicit brews and ethanol, which end up in local communities. Several operations have been conducted in this county, and recently, about 8,000 liters of ethanol were confiscated. Those involved have already faced court action,” he said.
The CS noted that Busia County remains under security watch to prevent the emergence of criminal groups, especially as the country heads toward elections.
“We have had cases of youth engaging in robbery with violence, but our security teams have dealt with them. Some goons and gangs are mobilized by politicians to provide security during meetings, but later turn to terrorizing people. We are dealing with them, and we urge politicians to ensure such groups do not emerge during their activities,” he said.
On cross-border issues, Murkomen said the government is working closely with Uganda to resolve conflicts around fishing in Lake Victoria.
“The concerned ministry has sensitized fishermen on the appropriate nets to use and ensured licensing is enforced. The Coast Guard has also helped us address illegal arrests of fishermen. We are increasing our presence on the lake, including patrol boats, while strengthening cooperation with Uganda,” he added.
Murkomen also assured residents of Alupe that the two governments are addressing gold mining activities along the border and tackling pollution of River Alupe caused by mining on the Ugandan side.
He emphasized the need for harmonized laws across East African countries to avoid legal conflicts.
“Sometimes it is difficult when we enforce a law against an offense that is considered legal in another country. This becomes a challenge because the same community lives across the border,” he said.
Addressing concerns about foreign security forces in Mandera, Murkomen reassured residents that there is no cause for alarm.
“When there is discomfort in a neighboring country, some citizens flee and seek refuge in Kenya. Our security team is investigating to ensure all such individuals are accounted for and safely repatriated. Leaders should work together to handle these cases so we maintain peace with our neighbors,” he stated.
The CS further urged Kenyans to remain vigilant against religious cults and misleading sects.
“Let’s work together to ensure no one falls victim to cult-related activities. Report suspicious groups and misleading teachings. The challenge is that after leaders of such cults are arrested, their followers often step in to take their place,” he warned.
