Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has voiced concern over the rising cases of Gender-Based Violence (GBV), including rape and defilement, particularly in the Rift Valley region.
Speaking during a security forum in Bomet County, the CS described the surge in GBV as "deeply unfortunate," noting that the crimes persist despite increased security efforts.
He singled out areas with tea plantations as some of the most affected.
"GBV remains a big challenge, especially in this region, particularly in areas where there are tea plantations," Murkomen stated.
"The security teams and the Directorate of Criminal Investigations have done a good job of weeding out the perpetrators, but more needs to be done.”
He commended the collaboration between the National Police Service, the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, and the Judiciary in securing convictions in sexual offence cases within the county.
“The severity of the bail terms and the seriousness with which the Judiciary takes sexual offences cases is laudable,” he said.
“The coordination between the three institutions ensures there is adequate enforcement.”
The CS, however, noted that many GBV cases remain unreported due to the perpetrators often being close family members.
He criticised the use of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) methods to settle such matters, warning that it hinders justice.
“These issues are frequently concealed because most of the perpetrators are family members,” Murkomen said.
“The use of ADR in such serious matters obstructs justice, and we must stop this culture.”
To combat this, Murkomen revealed that security teams have been instructed to intensify community engagement and public sensitisation.
"I have given instructions on the issue of sensitisation, which will be continued as a top priority in the counties," he noted, urging the public to work closely with the police, chiefs, and assistant chiefs.
The CS also addressed the rise in cybercrime in Bomet and Narok counties, attributing the problem to a notorious syndicate known as the "Mulot Boys."
"These fraudulent activities have reduced, and those scamming have been apprehended and charged in court," Murkomen said.
“We have made strides from where we were two years ago, and now the public is aware of fraudulent characters out to scam people, especially women.”
He praised the efforts of National Government Administrative Officers (NGAOs), along with local and national media, for helping educate the public on cyber fraud and preventing new victims from falling prey.
