Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has firmly stated that while unemployment may contribute to crime, it should never serve as a justification for criminal behavior. Speaking during his tour of the Jukwa la Usalama Lower Eastern Region, Murkomen emphasized the importance of personal accountability, arguing that even in challenging economic times, individuals still have a choice to live lawfully.
The CS pointed out that while many people face unemployment, they do not resort to crime as a solution. “Unemployment should not be used as an excuse for causing violence. Many people are unemployed, yet they work very hard every day to improve their livelihoods. They don’t say that because they don’t have jobs, they can steal or kill someone,” Murkomen stated. He stressed that crime is a choice, not a consequence of financial hardship, and excusing it as such sets a dangerous precedent.
Murkomen’s remarks come in the wake of rising concerns over criminal activities, particularly those linked to organized criminal gangs and online misconduct. He pointed out that even individuals with stable jobs engage in criminal behavior, particularly online, citing the prevalence of cybercrimes and social media abuse. “It’s not about idleness. Most of the people insulting others on social media are employed in either the public or private sector,” Murkomen observed, underlining that crime is not justified by one’s employment status.
The CS also assured the public that the government is taking decisive action to combat crime, particularly the activities of criminal gangs. “Mambo ya criminal gangs inapatia strain askari wetu lakini tutapambana nao. Our security forces are on alert, and there should never be any cause for alarm,” he said. Murkomen cited recent successful police operations in Mombasa, Kwale, and Kilifi to dismantle criminal groups, promising continued efforts to ensure the safety and security of all Kenyans.
In conclusion, while the government acknowledges the role unemployment plays in crime, Murkomen’s message is clear: crime cannot and should not be excused, regardless of one’s employment status.
