Friday Sermons to lead campaign against rising crime in Garissa

Friday sermons in various mosques will be among the measures employed to address the rising incidence of crime in Garissa.

This was one of the resolutions reached during a high-level security crisis meeting convened by Governor Nathif Jama to address a spike in criminal activities that are threatening to turn the town into a crime hotspot.

Participants noted that drug and substance abuse is one of the major drivers of criminal activity, prompting leaders and religious institutions to launch awareness campaigns beginning with Friday sermons in local mosques.

The sermons will focus on parental responsibility in guiding children, the dangers of drug abuse, and the importance of becoming responsible citizens while emphasizing on young people to avoid activities that could lead them into conflict with the law.

The meeting held on Wednesday brought together security officials, members of the County Assembly, religious leaders, elders, women and youth representatives, and chiefs from all four wards of Garissa Township.

Garissa, once described as one of the most peaceful towns in the country, has recently witnessed a surge in murders, stabbings, violent robberies, and break-ins targeting homes and businesses.

The latest victim was Osman Aweis, an American citizen who was attacked by criminals in Bula Mzuri. The assailants robbed him of his phone before stabbing him. He later died from excessive bleeding.

Last month, a middle-aged woman was attacked and gang-raped by a group of six boys.

Addressing the stakeholders, Governor Jama emphasized that security is a shared responsibility and urged all residents to work closely with security agencies, community leaders, and other stakeholders to safeguard peace and stability.

He stressed the need to close gaps within the security system that have allowed known criminals to walk free.

“Insecurity in Garissa County cannot continue like this. Garissa was once a town known for peace and security across the country, and it is very sad that we have now reached a point where people are living in fear. Our families are scared, our mothers are afraid even to leave their homes to buy basic necessities, and we worry about the safety of our school-going children,” he said.

Among the other resolutions reached was a plan to establish a police station in every ward within Garissa Township and create additional administrative units to improve security coordination.

Participants also pledged to strengthen cooperation between residents and security agencies in order to restore public confidence and make Garissa safe again.

“Insecurity is a common enemy that threatens development. We are committed to working together to ensure all communities live in peace and harmony,” said Sebastian Okiring the Deputy County Commissioner.