Deputy IG vows firm action against criminal gangs, rogue boda boda operators

Senior police officers from across the country follow proceedings during the opening of the two-day annual high-level security conference at Kenya Maritime Authority Hall in Mombasa./KNA

Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat has issued a stern warning to criminal gangs and rogue motorcycle operators, stating that law enforcement agencies will firmly and lawfully deal with individuals involved in violence, drug trafficking, illicit alcohol and other criminal activities.

At the opening of a two-day annual high-level security conference for regional commanders and directors at the Kenya Maritime Authority Hall in Mombasa, Lagat said senior police officers had gathered to review operations, refine strategies and address emerging security challenges.

“This is a conference of senior police officers at the level of regional commanders, directors, and commanders. We normally meet annually to review our operations and strategies with the aim of addressing emerging challenges,” Lagat said.

He highlighted election preparedness as a central focus of the deliberations, emphasizing the need to maintain stability and public order during the upcoming campaign period and elections.

“We are planning for campaigns and the subsequent elections. Our objective is to ensure that Kenyans exercise their democratic rights in a secure environment,” he added.

The conference also discussed police welfare, with commanders directed to strengthen support systems for officers serving in the field.

“We are discussing how commanders can better assist officers in the field. Welfare is critical to effective service delivery,” Lagat explained, noting that the meeting combined strategic and operational elements.

Lagat reiterated that authorities will not tolerate criminal activities, especially those perpetrated by organized gangs and unruly boda boda operators.

“We are very clear that criminal activities advanced by goons will not be tolerated. The law is clear,” he said.

Lagat pointed out that clear directives had been issued from the highest levels of security leadership to enforce the law decisively.

“We have spoken against it, the Cabinet Secretary for Interior has done so, and we have a clear directive from the Inspector General of the National Police to deal with these criminal activities firmly and according to the law,” he stated.

He cautioned that anyone involved in violence, drug-related offences, or the illicit alcohol trade would face concerted action from all government agencies.

“If you are involved in criminal activities—whether as a panga-wielding attacker, in drugs, or illicit alcohol—you have no place in Kenya. All government agencies will deal with you,” Lagat warned.

The annual commanders’ conference continues with closed-door sessions to deliberate further on operational security matters and national policing priorities.