Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has pledged intensified government action to combat rising security threats in Embu and neighboring counties, emphasizing a stronger multi-agency approach and deeper community engagement.
Speaking at the Jukwaa la Usalama – Embu County Chapter, Murkomen highlighted collaborative security models such as Nyumba Kumi, peace committees, and multi-agency operations as critical tools for fostering peace and resolving long-standing community conflicts.
“Our security success relies on how well we work with the people. Strengthening these collaborations is our strategy to tackle both security and service delivery challenges,” he said.
Murkomen raised concerns over the proliferation of illicit brews and second-generation alcohol in Embu, Tharaka Nithi, and Meru counties, calling it a major public safety threat.
He lauded ongoing efforts by NACADA, security agencies, NGAOs, and county governments, and promised more national support to scale the impact.
He also decried the cultivation of cannabis in Mt Kenya forest, describing it as a growing menace.
“The partnership between KFS, KWS, and police is vital, and we are stepping up operations to stop this illegal activity,” he noted.
The CS addressed the high rate of road accidents on the Meru-Nairobi Highway, linking them to speeding miraa vehicles.
He said enforcement would be tightened in collaboration with KENHA, NTSA, and miraa traders’ associations.
Murkomen stressed the need to build trust between police and local communities, saying renewed cooperation with chiefs and assistant chiefs was already improving intelligence sharing and crime prevention.
The forum was attended by Runyenjes MP Eric Karemba, DIG-KPS Eliud Lagat, Eastern Regional Commissioner Paul Rotich, top police officials, Embu County Commissioner Jack Obuo, County Assembly Speaker Josiah Thiriku, and several MCAs.
