Senator Cherarkey seeks accountability on IPOA probes and rising gang activity

Senate Planery
Thursday, 19th February 2026

Nandi Senator Samson Cherarkey has sought statements from the Senate Standing Committee on National Security, Defence and Foreign Relations on the status of investigations into extra judicial killings and the rise in organised criminal gangs across the country.
Speaking in the Senate, Cherarkey expressed concern over unresolved cases linked to police conduct. “Many incidents of police brutality and unlawful killings have been reported, yet justice remains elusive,” he said. “We must know how many cases IPOA is handling, how long they have taken, and why delays persist.”
The Senator cited several cases that have raised public concern, including deaths in police custody, killings during enforcement operations, and bodies recovered in River Yala. He said families deserve answers and justice. “Victims’ families must be kept informed and supported,” he said. “We must also ensure safeguards are in place to prevent abuse by officers under investigation.”
Cherarkey also raised alarm over the growing threat of organised criminal gangs in several counties. He noted that the Government’s Jukwaa la Usalama report identified multiple regions as heavily affected. “The rise of organised gangs is a serious national security threat,” he said. “We must understand how these gangs acquire firearms and what is being done to dismantle them.”
He urged authorities to strengthen intelligence, prosecution, and prevention efforts. “Security agencies must act firmly to dismantle criminal networks and protect citizens,” he said. “We must also address the root causes such as youth unemployment and poverty.”
Cherarkey said his request seeks transparency, accountability, and effective action. “Kenyans deserve safety and justice,” he said. “Oversight is our duty, and we will ensure institutions deliver on their mandate.”