Why the north has become a playground for criminal gangs

Caskets bearing the remains of six people who were killed by bandits during their burial service at Kabel in Mochongoi, Baringo South on March 12, 2022. [Kipsang Joseph, Standard]

An inquiry by the Parliament Committee on Administration and National Security into the security situation in the North Rift region paints a grim picture.

The report, released on August 13, reveals that the six counties most affected by banditry are patrolled by only 43 police officers, who lack the modern equipment necessary to combat well-armed and organized criminal gangs. The officers are further hampered by poor road networks, inadequate communication infrastructure, lack of aerial support, and complex local political dynamics that often hinder effective law enforcement.