Crackdown looms on gangs and drug dealers in Nairobi East

By Sammy Kimatu

The Nairobi East Sub-Region administration has warned suspected criminal gangs, illicit brew dealers, drug traffickers and other individuals involved in illegal activities that they will face intensified security operations.

Nairobi East Sub-Region County Commissioner Dr Simon Were issued the warning during a public baraza at Star of Hope Junior and Secondary School in Mukuru-Lunga Lunga slum, Makadara Sub-County, Nairobi on Thursday, August 21, 2026.

Dr Were urged residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to security agencies, stressing that “community cooperation remains critical in the fight against crime.”

He expressed concern over the spread of illicit brews and drugs, saying they could destroy young people’s lives and contribute to other forms of crime. He warned those involved in manufacturing, distributing and selling illegal alcoholic drinks and narcotic substances that security agencies would intensify operations against them.

The County Commissioner also said the administration would not allow criminal gangs and suspected goons to establish bases in Nairobi East Sub-Region. He called on parents, religious leaders, youth groups, community representatives and local administrators to work together to identify emerging security threats.

Youth empowerment and flood control

The meeting, hosted by Makadara Deputy County Commissioner Philip Koima, brought together government administrators, security officers, local leaders and residents.

Dr Were highlighted youth empowerment initiatives, saying more than 20,000 young people in Nairobi County had benefited from the Climateworkx Programme, which engages young people in climate-related initiatives.

Makadara DCC Phiip Koima addressing a public baraza at Star of Hope Primary and Junior Sec Sc in Mukuru-Lunga Lunga slum in Makadara Sub County. Photo/Sammy Kimatu

“Empowering young people was also an important strategy in preventing them from being recruited into criminal activities,” Dr Were said, urging youth to reject gangs, drug abuse and other illegal activities.

He also announced plans to desilt and widen the Ngong River in Makadara to improve drainage and reduce flooding risks ahead of El Nino rains forecast by meteorological authorities.

Residents living near rivers and drainage channels were urged to avoid dumping garbage and other materials that could obstruct water flow.

On healthcare, Dr Were said approximately 32.3 million people had registered under the Social Health Authority (SHA).

Water, power and illegal structures

Koima warned water cartels and individuals involved in illegal water connections in Mukuru that they would be pursued and brought to justice.

The DCC also warned against illegal electricity connections, saying power tapping and unauthorised sales posed serious risks, including fires, electrocution and loss of property.

“Illegal electricity connections not only amount to theft but also pose serious risks to residents,” Koima said, urging residents to use proper procedures for obtaining electricity.

From left: Makadara DCC Philip Koima, Nairobi East Sub Region AP Commander Simon Njenga and the Nairobi East Region County Commissioner Dr Simiyu Were at a public baraza at Star of Hope Primary and Junior Sec Scool in Mukuru-Lunga Lunga slum in Makadara Sub County. Photo/Sammy Kimatu

Koima encouraged residents without national identity cards to register. With the 2027 General Election approaching, he urged eligible citizens to obtain identification documents and register as voters when the relevant exercise begins.

He further warned that illegal structures along Nanyuki Road near the Kenya Pipeline pump station would be removed.

Koima called on affected residents and businesses to remove illegal structures before enforcement teams act, stressing that government land and utility corridors must be protected.

The baraza ended with calls for public cooperation, vigilance and compliance with the law. Dr Were said security could not be achieved by government agencies alone and urged residents to report criminal activities, illegal businesses and exploitation.

He reiterated that the administration would continue working with communities and security agencies to create a safer environment while improving service delivery across Nairobi East Sub-Region.