Swoops not enough

A police officer verifies identification documents of passengers in a matatu in Nairobi on April 5, 2014. PHOTO | STEVE WAITHANJI.  NATION MEDIA GROUP

In Summary

• There is obviously a need to pay more attention to security sector reforms

The ongoing police operation in parts of Nairobi, especially Eastleigh, has been justified as a reaction to recent incidents that threaten national security. While the security agencies should be commended for acting to deter suspected terrorists, the swoops also point to deep-rooted problems that call for broader solutions. (PICTURES: 500 arrested in Eastleigh swoop)

There is suspicion about the intentions of the police, and leaders of some minority communities have complained the security operation is a guise to extort and harass them. These concerns cannot be ignored.

There is obviously a need to pay more attention to security sector reforms, not only to address the image problem but also to guide and equip those involved in such operations.

This, complemented with properly structured community policing, will make it easier to change attitudes towards security officials and help better identify suspected criminals.

The Immigration department must also examine its processes and personnel, in light of allegations that many foreigners have either irregularly acquired Kenyan identification documents or are not properly registered.

In short, without a comprehensive approach to security, crackdowns alone have limited effect.