Murkomen Orders Arrest of ‘Goons’ Linked to Opposition After Attacks on PS Omollo
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has directed Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja to urgently arrest individuals he described as “goons” allegedly linked to opposition leaders, in the wake of escalating political tensions and recent violent incidents.
Speaking amid growing concern over political violence, Murkomen accused sections of the opposition of organising and deploying groups to disrupt public events and undermine law and order. He also criticised attempts to associate Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo with such groups, dismissing the claims as misplaced.
According to the CS, intelligence reports indicate that some opposition figures routinely move with organised groups tasked with controlling crowds, disrupting rival events, and escalating confrontations.
“I saw some of the opposition leaders linking my PS to goons. I want to dare them to come out and denounce the goons they are walking and working with,” Murkomen stated.
“I want to ask the Inspector General to move with speed and arrest all those boys they work with so that they can become an example,” he added.
“Some of the leading people in recruiting goons are sitting in the opposition despite coming to pontificate to the public. That is why they are shifting the blame to the public. We will do our jobs without fear or favour and make sure that we get rid of goons from this country,” he said.
The directive comes in response to a recent attack on Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi, who was assaulted at a café in Kisumu. The incident, which was captured on CCTV footage, showed the senator being attacked by a group of individuals, leaving him with serious injuries.
Following the attack, Osotsi was airlifted to Nairobi for specialised treatment. The incident has drawn widespread condemnation from leaders across the political divide, many calling for swift justice and accountability.
In a related development, a court in Kisumu ordered suspects linked to the attack to remain in custody at Kisumu Central Police Station for seven days to allow for further investigations. Resident Magistrate Daniel Chumba also directed that a forensic audit of the CCTV footage be conducted as part of the investigative process.
Prosecutors have indicated that the suspects could face charges of robbery with violence, a serious offence under Kenyan law. However, defence lawyers have raised concerns over the manner in which the arrests were conducted, arguing that the suspects’ rights may have been violated.
Interior PS Omollo, who had been mentioned in earlier political accusations, condemned the attack and called for accountability, regardless of political affiliation.
“For sure, what happened to Osotsi was unfortunate. Any leader who uses goons must be held accountable and face the full force of the law,” Omollo said.
The unfolding developments highlight rising political tensions, particularly in the aftermath of violent incidents linked to public gatherings and political events. Analysts warn that continued accusations between rival factions risk escalating the situation further if not addressed through impartial investigations.
Security agencies now face increasing pressure to act decisively while maintaining neutrality, as calls grow for the arrest and prosecution of those responsible for organising and executing acts of violence.
As investigations continue, attention remains on whether the government’s directive will lead to tangible action and help curb the growing trend of politically linked unrest across the country.
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Murkomen Orders Arrest of ‘Goons’ Linked to Opposition After Attacks on PS Omollo
