Murkomen Pushes for Drone Surveillance Amid Sharp Drop in Police Numbers

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has revealed plans to introduce high-tech drones to bolster Kenya’s security.

Speaking during a live interview on Citizen TV on Wednesday, May 14, Murkomen emphasized the urgent need for better surveillance tools.

He believes advanced drones with night vision and extended flight capacity will help cover more ground and reduce the cost of security operations.

Murkomen’s remarks come at a time when the country is witnessing a significant decline in the number of police officers, raising concerns over public safety and national security.

Beyond drones, Murkomen is also advocating for better equipment and training for officers. He believes a smaller police force can still be effective if it is well-trained and has access to high-level tools. [Photo/Courtesy]

Murkomen Pushes for Drone Surveillance to Curb Security Challenges

The proposal to introduce drone surveillance comes amid growing pressure to address Kenya’s declining police force. According to Murkomen, using drones equipped with night vision and extended flight time can cut surveillance costs and make operations more efficient.

“If I had a wishlist, my first wish would be technology,” he stated. “Our dream, which is within our plan, is to have more drones, and not just the simple drones—the ones that have longer flight capability and night vision.”

Murkomen believes that these drones would help cover wider areas, especially in regions where manpower is stretched thin. They would also give law enforcement a better chance at tracking criminal activity, especially at night when visibility is limited.

His comments align with a recent report from the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS), which revealed a significant drop in security personnel. In the Kenya Police Service alone, the number of officers fell from 92,350 in 2023 to 88,483 in 2024. The Prisons Department also saw a decrease, with 590 fewer officers than the previous year.

This drop, likely due to retirements, injuries, or deaths, leaves gaps in the ability to respond quickly to emergencies. Murkomen sees drone technology as a necessary tool to fill that gap.

Improving Equipment and Training for Police Forces

Beyond drones, Murkomen is also advocating for better equipment and training for officers. He believes a smaller police force can still be effective if it is well-trained and has access to high-level tools.

“By doing this, few can operate in an operational area with better equipment,” Murkomen explained.

To him, a well-equipped officer can do the work of many, especially when backed by technology. He wants to see an investment in modern surveillance tools, such as thermal cameras and drones with live-streaming abilities. These would not only improve safety but also reduce the cost of large deployments.

Murkomen also called for more helicopters to enhance air surveillance and ensure faster transport of officers to conflict zones. According to him, air power is essential in responding to threats and emergencies in remote or hostile regions like the North Rift or coastal areas.

The Interior CS also highlighted the role of education in national security. He believes that promoting civic education will lead to a more alert and informed public, one that can detect and report security threats early.

Murkomen Pushes for Drone Surveillance as Government Plans to Recruit More Officers

While drone surveillance could ease the pressure on the current police force, the government still plans to increase its manpower. Recently, officials announced a plan to recruit around 10,000 new police officers.

What stands out is that the recruitment process will be done online. This marks a significant shift from the traditional physical application process and is expected to make recruitment more transparent and accessible.

Still, recruitment alone may not be enough. With modern threats such as cybercrime, terrorism, and organized gangs, security demands are evolving. This is why Murkomen insists that technology must be the first line of defense. He envisions a future where a combination of trained personnel and advanced tools work hand in hand to protect the country.

Final Thoughts

Murkomen’s push for drone surveillance is not just about responding to a crisis in police numbers. It is a bold vision for the future of law enforcement in Kenya. With fewer officers on the ground, technology could be the key to maintaining law and order.

By investing in smart surveillance tools, air mobility, and officer training, Kenya could enhance its security systems without over-relying on boots on the ground. As the country prepares to recruit new officers, embracing innovation may ensure that Kenya remains safe, even with a leaner security workforce.