The government has reaffirmed its commitment to weeding out organized criminal gangs in Nakuru County that has been terrorizing residents with security measures beefed up.
Nakuru County Commissioner, Erastus Mbui, said a multiagency security team have scaled up operations to guarantee safety and order to residents mostly in the informal settlements parts of the city.
Mbui said they have flagged criminal gangs within the city named, Eastlando, Msafi Kwanza, Confirm and Gaza which are often involved in gruesome murders, robbery, drug peddling, phone snatching among other petty crimes.
Mbui said security team has already arrested some of the gang members and are facing different criminal charges both at Nakuru and Naivasha Law Courts adding that the government is on high alert during this electioneering period.
Mbui while addressing a peace meeting in Naivasha assured residents that the government has put thorough security measures that will guarantee peace before, during and after the August polls.
“We are keenly monitoring all the candidates to ensure no incitement cases are reported that may lead to unrest in the region”, said Mbui.
Mbui urged the public to elect leaders who have their interests at heart and not to be swayed by empty promises while at the same time calling for political tolerance during this campaign period.
He said Nakuru has also rolled out several peace led initiatives in partnership with various non-governmental organizations including sports, sensitization programs in areas that have been flagged as hot spots for election-related violence.
On her part, Youth Bila Noma programs coordinator Rukiya Ahmed said the organization is closely working with youth groups to tame hate, polarization and extremism during the ongoing electioneering period.
Rukiya said the organization is bridging the gap in accessing government for youth related programs which she said will keep off young people from being misused by politicians.
By Erastus Gichohi and Calvin Osiemo
