Turkana Central: Turkana Central Deputy County Commissioner (DCC) Thomas Siele has issued a stern warning to criminals following incidents targeting residents in the sub-county. Speaking during Madaraka Day celebrations held at Moi Gardens in Lodwar, Siele assured the public that security agencies would take firm action against those involved in criminal activities. ‘We will not allow criminals to terrorize our people. Security officers are on high alert and will deal firmly with any criminal elements,’ he said.
According to Kenya News Agency, his remarks came in response to concerns raised by local leaders over a surge in crime in Lodwar Township and Kanamkemer Wards. Nominated MCA Mary Arupe, elder Ali Aremon, and youth leader William Ebei highlighted cases of goat theft and violent attacks on bodaboda operators, especially at night in Nakwamekwi and surrounding areas. ‘Our households depend on goats for their basic needs. When these animals are stolen, families are left without a livelihood,’ said MCA Arupe.
Elder Aremon added that fear of attack has forced bodaboda riders to carry a second escort passenger at night. He recounted a recent tragic incident in which a rider was killed in Nakwamekwi after being stabbed by a gang pretending to be passengers. The killing sparked protests among riders, prompting security agencies to step in and restore calm.
Nominated MCA Ruth Erwan urged political leaders to stop manipulating youth for political gain. ‘We must stop giving youth handouts to incite violence or attack political opponents. This is wrong and must end,’ she said.
DCC Siele revealed that in recent months, security agencies had arrested several suspects and recovered seven illegal firearms in the sub-county. He vowed to continue cracking down on criminal networks to ensure residents can live without fear. He also directed National Police Reservists (NPRs) from border sub-counties to surrender their guns at police stations whenever they are in Lodwar. ‘I have instructed my officers to arrest any NPR found roaming with a firearm in town. Those guns are meant for protecting communities along the borders-not for misuse in urban areas,’ he warned.
Siele further cautioned butchery operators against buying goats from individuals who cannot prove the animals’ origin, warning they would be held accountable for aiding livestock theft. ‘Butchery owners who ignore this risk arrest and prosecution for abetting crime,’ he said. He also warned scrap metal dealers to avoid buying metallic items in good condition, which could be stolen property disguised as scrap.
During the same event, Siele expressed sorrow over the recent drowning of two children at Kawalase Drift within a span of one week. He appealed to the county’s disaster management department to work closely with his office to prevent further tragedies. On education, the DCC warned parents against keeping children out of school, saying they risk being charged with child neglect. ‘Every child must be in school, uniform or not. I recently rescued several children from the streets and enrolled them in school, providing food to support their attendance,’ he added.
Residents welcomed President William Ruto’s efforts to create job opportunities for the youth, suggesting a revival of a program similar to Kazi Kwa Vijana (Jobs for Youth). ‘We are grateful to the President for considering Turkana in national appointments and for prioritizing job creation for our youth,’ said MCA Arupe.