Residents and leaders in Kisumu are raising alarm over an emerging trend where criminal elements—commonly referred to as goons—are reportedly gaining access to police-grade tear gas canisters, raising serious concerns about public safety and police integrity especially during this time when there's insecurity and high political tempratures.
The troubling development has come to light following a case in Nyakatch during ODM elections, during which unauthorized individual was found with tear gas and crude weapons which was suspected to be used to disrupt the process and intimidate opponents. Eyewitness accounts and preliminary investigations point to rogue police officers as the likely source of the illicit supply.
“We have credible reports that some tear gas canisters used during recent protests did not come from official police deployment. The worrying part is that these weapons are finding their way into the wrong hands,” said a senior county official who spoke on condition of anonymity.
Sources within Kisumu’s security apparatus suggest that certain officers may be illegally selling or ‘losing’ canisters, which then end up in the black market or directly in the possession of goons hired for political or criminal agendas.
Residents in Fear
The presence of tear gas in the hands of untrained individuals has heightened fear among Kisumu residents, many of whom feel trapped between police crackdowns and politically motivated chaos.
“It's one thing to run from tear gas during official police operations, but it's completely different when the same is used by rowdy youth targeting homes and businesses,” said Mary Atieno, a shopkeeper in Kondele. “It’s terrifying and unacceptable.”
Leaders Demand Accountability
Kisumu leaders are now calling for immediate investigations into the matter. County Assembly members and civil society groups are urging the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) and Internal Affairs Unit (IAU) of the National Police Service to intervene.
“Kisumu cannot become a playground for rogue officers and criminal gangs. We want those responsible held to account. If there are officers aiding this kind of activity, they must face the full force of the law,” said Kisumu East MP Shakeel Shabbir.
Police Response
In response, Kisumu County Police Commander has promised a full probe into the allegations. “We take these reports seriously. Any officer found to be involved in the unlawful distribution of government-issued equipment will be dealt with firmly. The safety of our citizens is non-negotiable,” he said.
A Call for Reforms
Security experts are now calling for tighter controls on police inventory, better training on crowd control ethics, and stronger whistleblower protection within the force.
“This is not just a Kisumu problem; it's a national policing issue,” said security analyst Dan Otieno. “If tear gas canisters are leaking into the streets, what next? It’s a slippery slope.”
As investigations continue, Kisumu residents are left hoping for swift justice and stronger oversight to prevent such dangerous lapses in future.
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