Rising Concern as Hired Goons Become Kenya’s “Alternative Police”

Many Kenyans are raising concerns after the growing use of hired goons to control crowds, intimidate rivals and settle disputes across the country.

The issue became more visible during the 2024–2025 anti-government protests, when demonstrations spread across major towns. Businesses closed, roads were blocked and tensions between protesters and authorities increased.

During this period, groups of aggressive young men appeared in different towns. Unlike ordinary criminals who hide from the police, these individuals operated openly in broad daylight. Armed with sticks and stones, they moved through streets confronting protesters and chasing crowds.

Witnesses in several cities claimed the groups seemed organised and were not acting randomly. Many Kenyans believed they were being directed by powerful individuals who wanted the protests stopped.

Police Presence Raises Questions

In some cases, residents reported seeing police officers moving alongside these groups during demonstrations. This raised questions about whether the goons were being tolerated or even protected by authorities.

One man who attracted attention online was Swaleh Sonko, who became popular on social media after speaking openly about recruiting people to disrupt protests and political events.

Although the protests eventually reduced, the use of these hired groups did not disappear.

Goons Now Targeting Political Events

Recently, the same groups have been linked to attacks at political gatherings. Supporters of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua have complained that hired goons are being sent to disrupt his meetings.

Reports from places such as Kariobangi, Limuru and Nyeri say groups of rowdy men stormed rallies, funerals and church events linked to the politician. In some cases, stones were thrown and vehicles damaged, forcing people to run away.

Observers say the growing trend shows how goons are being used as a political tool.

Property Disputes Also Affected

The problem is not only seen in politics. In some property disputes, individuals are reportedly using hired gangs to intimidate tenants or force people out of buildings.

This week, two former government officials claimed they were victims of such incidents.

Former Cabinet Secretary Raphael Tuju and former Principal Secretary Irungu Nyakera both reported that large groups of goons stormed their properties in Nairobi and Kisumu.

According to reports, the groups climbed over walls, damaged property and threatened people at the premises.

Many Kenyans were shocked after seeing influential leaders facing such attacks while police response appeared slow or absent.

Leaders Warn of Dangerous Trend

Some politicians have warned that the growing “goon culture” could create serious security problems if it is not controlled.

Suba North MP Millie Odhiambo warned that allowing gangs to operate freely could push the country toward insecurity.

She said Kenya risks developing a dangerous system where criminals are used to enforce power or settle disputes.

Growing Concern Among Kenyans

With unemployment high and political tensions rising, analysts say the use of hired groups could increase if strong action is not taken.

Many citizens now fear that if the situation continues, disputes that should be handled by the law may instead be settled by violence.

For many Kenyans, the big question remains: Who is behind the rise of these organised goons — and how long will it continue?

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