Criminal gangs continue spreading across Kenya despite government efforts to stop them, a new survey shows. These groups adapt quickly, avoid police, and keep growing their reach. The National Crime Research Center found 309 gangs operate in 11 counties, with Mombasa having 73 groups, Nairobi 56, and Kilifi 47. Their activities include robbery, assault, drug dealing, and murder.
Most gang members are young men with little education who abuse drugs. They join because of peer pressure, unemployment, and poor family support. The gangs stay active partly because communities protect them by not reporting crimes. Law officers sometimes take bribes, which makes the problem worse.
Current prevention methods include police patrols, intelligence work, public meetings, and youth programs. However, these efforts lack proper funding and face political interference. The center recommends better law enforcement, community involvement, economic opportunities for youth, and fighting drug trafficking.
Criminal groups have deeply infiltrated many sectors, including security forces, the drug trade, and public transport. This makes them a complex security threat that requires multiple approaches to address both the gangs themselves and the problems that help them grow.
Most gang members are young men with little education who abuse drugs. They join because of peer pressure, unemployment, and poor family support. The gangs stay active partly because communities protect them by not reporting crimes. Law officers sometimes take bribes, which makes the problem worse.
Current prevention methods include police patrols, intelligence work, public meetings, and youth programs. However, these efforts lack proper funding and face political interference. The center recommends better law enforcement, community involvement, economic opportunities for youth, and fighting drug trafficking.
Criminal groups have deeply infiltrated many sectors, including security forces, the drug trade, and public transport. This makes them a complex security threat that requires multiple approaches to address both the gangs themselves and the problems that help them grow.
