Police in Isiolo are urging local youth to actively contribute to efforts aimed at curbing crime and radicalization in the region. Speaking during the observance of the International Day for the Prevention of Violent Extremism, police officers from the Peace Corps department highlighted the vital role that young people can play in addressing key issues such as drug trafficking and violent extremism.
Inspector Julius Mutabari and Harriet Mungai, who led the community engagement activities, emphasized that sharing information could be a powerful tool in tackling the growing concerns of crime and radicalization, particularly among the youth. They reassured the public that any information provided would remain confidential, encouraging a collaborative approach to ensure a safer environment for all.
The event, held at the Isiolo police grounds, also saw participation from religious leaders in the region, who played a key role in supporting the initiative. Isiolo Interfaith Chairperson Sheikh Ahmed Set and Bishop Stephen Kalunyu applauded the government’s decision to lift the vetting requirement for youth seeking identification cards, a policy that had previously hampered many young people’s access to basic rights, including citizenship. This policy had been viewed as a major factor contributing to radicalization, with many youths feeling disenfranchised and marginalized.
Sheikh Ahmed pointed out that the lack of access to identity documents had often led some individuals in the region to resort to terrorism and other criminal activities. He advocated for a more inclusive approach that allows all secondary school leavers to obtain Kenyan citizenship without the burdens of an extensive vetting process, stressing that the issue should not be politicized.
Luqman Ahmed, Programs Manager for Regional Pastoralists’ Peacelink, reinforced the concerns raised by religious leaders. He revealed that surveys conducted across North Eastern counties showed a disturbing trend of radicalization among youths, particularly in areas where the denial of identification cards had been widespread. Ahmed also highlighted the alarming rise in drug and substance abuse in Isiolo, calling on the youth to reject these harmful practices and contribute to reporting illicit activities to the authorities.
Bishop Kalunyu added that religious leaders must remain vigilant to prevent extremists from using faith as a tool for radicalizing vulnerable youth. His remarks underscored the need for a united front in tackling the root causes of crime and extremism in the region, with both the youth and religious communities working hand in hand with law enforcement.
This call to action marks an important step in addressing the complex social challenges facing Isiolo, with police and community leaders encouraging collaboration to foster peace, safety, and inclusion in the area.
