Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi has issued a crucial warning regarding the potential evolution of organized criminal gangs into violent extremist and terrorist organizations if their activities go unchecked.
He emphasized the urgent need for communities and security agencies to enhance vigilance to prevent these criminal elements from expanding their influence, which poses a significant threat to national security.
During the inauguration of the Kenya Counter-Terrorism Hotline in Nairobi on Thursday, Mudavadi highlighted the correlation between the rise of organized criminal gangs and the necessity for robust community surveillance and enhanced security collaboration.
“The proliferation of organized criminal gangs necessitates increased vigilance and monitoring from both communities and security agencies,” Mudavadi stated.
He cautioned that allowing these gangs to grow or become entrenched could lead to their transformation from petty crime into violent extremism.
The Foreign and Diaspora Affairs Cabinet Secretary underscored the importance of closely scrutinizing the activities of gangs that terrorize communities, undermine state institutions, and threaten democratic processes.
He raised an important consideration regarding whether certain groups engaged in such activities should continue to be classified solely as criminal gangs or if their actions merit evaluation under terrorism-related frameworks.
“This prompts a critical question: when gangs terrorize communities and destabilize state institutions and democracy, should we continue to categorize them as criminal gangs or recognize them as terrorist organizations?” Mudavadi inquired.
He asserted that both communities and security agencies must diligently monitor the activities of these gangs due to the risks of radicalization and their potential shift towards violent extremism and terrorism.
Mudavadi praised the newly launched counter-terrorism hotline as a vital tool for fostering cooperation between communities and security agencies, offering a direct channel for reporting terrorism-related concerns.
He described this initiative as a significant advancement in enhancing public safety and fortifying community-based strategies against terrorism.
The hotline allows the public to confidentially report suspicious extremist and terrorist activities, supporting anonymous submissions.
Mudavadi emphasized that this initiative would dismantle barriers to the timely exchange of sensitive information while nurturing trust between communities and specialized security agencies.
“The hotline serves as a fundamental platform for improved collaboration between communities and security agencies, aiming to make Kenya a safe and peaceful environment for all,” he stated.
He encouraged Kenyans to utilize the platform responsibly, clarifying that it is specifically designed for counter-terrorism reports rather than general police complaints.
“The Hotline is dedicated to counter-terrorism reporting and should not be used for general police matters or personal grievances,” Mudavadi explained.
He advised the public to utilize established police channels for other types of reports.
**Heightened Vigilance Ahead of the General Election**
Mudavadi also called for heightened vigilance in public spaces as Kenya approaches the General Election, recognizing that large gatherings may be susceptible to terrorist attacks.
He urged communities to report individuals who engage in or plan terrorist activities.
The Cabinet Secretary further warned that online activities should be included in community reporting efforts, citing the emerging threats of cyber-terrorism and disruptive ransom-seeking attacks.
He stressed that the evolving security landscape mandates citizens to collaborate with security agencies to identify and avert threats.
Mudavadi acknowledged that terrorism poses a significant challenge across Africa and the Horn of Africa, where regional instability and violent conflicts can exacerbate security risks.
He reaffirmed that national security is a collective responsibility shared between the government and its citizens.
“Security begins with you as an individual,” he stated, invoking the Swahili phrase, “Usalama unaanza na mimi.”
Mudavadi urged Kenyans to remain vigilant in workplaces, public transportation, places of worship, educational institutions, and business venues, while utilizing the hotline to share information that could protect their communities.
The counter-terrorism hotline was launched through a collaborative partnership involving Kenya, the United Kingdom, and the United States.
