The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has announced plans to dismantle criminal networks ahead of the 2027 General Election, warning that gangs could be recruited to fuel violence, intimidate voters and disrupt electoral processes.
The agency says its strategy will focus on targeting individuals who organise, finance and command criminal gangs rather than concentrating solely on street-level members.
The Director of Operations at DCI headquarters, Samson Kiptum, made the remarks while briefing senior police commanders on the agency's investigative preparedness plan for the 2027 polls.
Kiptum, who represented the Director of DCI, addressed Regional, Formation and County Commanders during a two-day sensitisation meeting taking place at the National Police Leadership Academy in Ngong, Nairobi.
The meeting, running from October 29 to 30, 2026, seeks to strengthen security preparations and ensure a peaceful, secure and credible electoral process.
Kiptum identified criminal gangs as a major security concern, noting that they could be hired to intimidate voters, attack political rallies, harass candidates and interfere with electoral activities.
He told the commanders that dismantling such networks required investigations that went beyond arresting individuals found committing offences on the streets.
Under the proposed approach, investigators will map out gang leaders, their command structures, financiers, hideouts and methods of operation before pursuing intelligence-led and evidence-based investigations.
The strategy is intended to expose those directing, recruiting and financing criminal activities, particularly individuals who may seek to exploit political competition to advance violent agendas.
The senior police officers were also urged to strengthen intelligence-sharing mechanisms, coordinate operations and establish early-warning systems linked to the electoral calendar.
Kiptum further called on commanders to work closely with communities, local administrators and Nyumba Kumi structures to identify emerging security threats and report suspicious activities before they escalate.
The DCI says proactive investigations and coordinated security planning will be central to preventing electoral offences and protecting public safety as the country approaches the 2027 General Election.
The agency has reaffirmed its commitment to detecting, investigating and disrupting criminal activities that could undermine the credibility of the electoral process, public confidence and the safety of Kenyans.
The announcement comes as security agencies begin preparations for the next General Election, with concerns over political violence, organised gangs and intimidation expected to feature prominently in the country's electoral security agenda.
