Kibaki: Fight crime the modern way

By Cyrus Ombati And Naseemah Mohamed

President Kibaki has ordered the police to adopt new strategies to combat the new breed of criminals.

Kibaki said armed robberies and murder were a matter of grave concern to Government and cited increased numbers of small arms and light weapons as the main cause.

The President said continued fighting in Somalia has contributed immensely to infiltration of illicit arms.

"We will continue to join the African Union and the international community in looking for a lasting solution to the problem in Somalia," said Kibaki. The President said globalisation and technological advancement had contributed to the sophistication of crime and asked police to partner with communities in addressing the situation.

Security Challenges

Kibaki said the Government would continue to support the law enforcement agencies by funding them and helping them develop their capabilities of meeting the security challenges.

"We will continue to provide necessary resources, facilities and equipment that will strengthen the capacity of police to effectively combat crime," he said.

The President said the Government had provided decent housing, transport, logistical and communication equipment for the force.

He spoke during the 51st passing out parade for 2,987 Administration Police recruits at Administration Police Training College, Embakasi yesterday.

The recruits are among the more than 6,000 who were enlisted from the National Youth Service in a new programme to address the shortage of police and unemployment.

Vice-President Kalonzo Musyoka said insecurity was a concern to many investors in the city and declared the Government would not allow criminals overrun the streets.