Kisumu Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o /FILE
Kisumu county has intensified its crackdown on organised criminal gangs following a violent confrontation in the Milimani area that left two young men dead and several properties destroyed.
Authorities have also vowed to pursue those behind the unrest and restore public confidence in security.
In a statement issued on Monday, Governor Anyang' Nyong'o said the violence, which occurred on Sunday, was not an isolated incident of youthful indiscipline but an organised criminal act that would be investigated and prosecuted to its full extent.
According to the county government, two organised groups of youth clashed in the city, leading to the deaths of two people. The confrontation also resulted in the destruction of a motor vehicle and at least nine motorcycles, disrupting business activities and leaving families in mourning.
"As co-chair of the County Security Authority alongside County Commissioner Mohammed Mwabudzo, we met and provide this update: Eight suspects are already in custody and the judicial process is underway," Nyong'o said.
The governor revealed that the county's ongoing security operation has already led to the arrest of more than 200 suspects across Kisumu, with investigations continuing into their alleged involvement in criminal activities.
"Eight suspects arrested in connection with yesterday's violence will be arraigned in court today," the statement said, adding that investigators were securing digital evidence, including material circulating on social media, to support further prosecutions.
The County Security Committee warned that criminal violence poses a serious threat not only to public safety but also to economic growth by discouraging investment, disrupting commerce and undermining employment opportunities.
"Criminality is not only a threat to public safety; it is an assault on economic development," the statement read.
Authorities also issued a stern warning to political actors accused of financing or encouraging violence, saying those found sponsoring criminal gangs would face the full force of the law.
"Political competition must never become a licence to sponsor violence or recruit young people into criminal networks," the statement said. "Anyone found financing, organising, or facilitating acts of violence, directly or indirectly, will face the full consequences of the law."
The county commended the National Police Service for its prompt response, saying officers prevented further loss of life during the incident.
Nyong'o urged young people to reject violence and embrace lawful opportunities, stressing that Kisumu's future depends on education, innovation and responsible citizenship rather than criminal activity.
"The future of this county will not be secured through violence, intimidation, or criminal enterprise. It will be secured through education, productive work, innovation and responsible citizenship," he said.
The governor reiterated that security operations will continue until criminal networks are dismantled, assuring residents that Kisumu remains committed to protecting lives, safeguarding investments and maintaining public order.
