Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi warned that organised criminal gangs may evolve into violent extremist or terrorist groups if their activities are not closely monitored.

Speaking at the inauguration of Kenya’s Counter‑Terrorism Hotline in Nairobi, he linked the rise of such gangs to a need for heightened community vigilance and cooperation with security agencies.

He questioned whether groups that terrorise communities and undermine democratic processes should continue to be classified solely as criminal gangs or be addressed under terrorism‑related frameworks.

How the new counter‑terrorism hotline works

The hotline offers a confidential, anonymous channel for the public to report suspicious extremist or terrorist activity.

Mudavadi described the platform as a way to remove barriers to timely sharing of sensitive information and to build trust between communities and specialised security agencies.

He clarified that the service is intended exclusively for counter‑terrorism reports, urging citizens to use regular police channels for other complaints.

Call for heightened public vigilance ahead of the General Election

Mudavadi warned that, as Kenya approaches the General Election, large public gatherings could be attractive targets for terrorist attacks and urged communities to stay alert.

He encouraged citizens to report individuals planning or carrying out terrorist activities, including online threats and cyber‑terrorism, through the hotline.

The hotline launch was a joint effort involving Kenya, the United Kingdom and the United States, reflecting broader regional security cooperation.