GARISSA, Kenya — Local leaders in Garissa have threatened to shut down the town’s main police station, accusing officers of corruption and alleged collusion with criminals amid a sharp rise in violent street crime.
The leaders described the facility as a “den of corruption” and said police had failed to respond effectively to a wave of attacks targeting residents in broad daylight.
The ultimatum comes as Garissa town has experienced a significant surge in insecurity over the past three months, including muggings, stabbings, armed robberies and home break-ins.
Residents say groups of knife-wielding youths have increasingly operated in several neighbourhoods, carrying out attacks in public spaces and leaving communities living in fear.
Once regarded as one of Kenya’s safer urban centres in the north, Garissa has seen a noticeable deterioration in security conditions in recent months.
Former Sankuri Ward MCA Abdiwahab Hussein urged national police leadership to intervene urgently to address the situation.
“We call on the Inspector-General of Police to help us solve this problem,” Hussein said.
He accused local officers of failing to contain the escalating violence and called for investigations into alleged misconduct within the station.
Community representatives say frustration has been building over what they describe as weak enforcement and lack of accountability from security agencies.
Garissa County Governor Nathif Jama has also convened high-level security meetings with stakeholders in response to the rising crime wave.
Officials warned that the situation is beginning to undermine public confidence in law enforcement and damage the county’s reputation.
Residents report increasing fear of movement, particularly during daytime hours when many of the attacks are said to occur.
Some victims say gangs appear to operate with growing boldness, targeting pedestrians and small businesses in busy areas.
Security analysts say the rise in youth gang activity may be linked to unemployment and broader socio-economic challenges affecting the region.
Police have not yet issued a detailed response to the allegations made by local leaders and residents.
Authorities are expected to review security operations in Garissa following mounting public pressure and calls for reform.
The latest developments highlight growing tensions between communities and law enforcement amid concerns over urban crime and public safety in northern Kenya.
Observers warn that unless urgent measures are taken, the situation could further escalate and deepen mistrust between residents and security agencies.
