Role of vigilante groups in crime management in Kariobangi North, Nairobi county, Kenya

Abstract

The idea of crime management has been everywhere as long as there have been crime, safety and security concerns. Owing to a myriad of factors, many states have failed to offer adequate security and protection, resulting in self-help vigilante groups. This study aimed to investigate the role of vigilante groups in the management of crime in Kariobangi North, Nairobi County. The objectives of the research study were; to determine the reasons for the emergence of vigilante groups in Kariobangi North, Nairobi County; to discover the activities vigilante groups engage in to manage crime in Kariobangi North, Nairobi County; to examine the success of vigilante groups in crime management in Kariobangi North, Nairobi County and to establish strategies that can be adapted to support vigilante groups in crime management in Kariobangi North, Nairobi County. The broken window theory and the social disorganization theory were applied in this study. The research targeted the residents of Kariobangi North, Nairobi County. Descriptive survey design was employed in the study where both qualitative and quantitative approaches were used. Questionnaires and interview schedules were utilized to gather necessary information from the respondents. Sampling was done using stratified sampling and purposive sampling techniques. Police officers, the local chief, and his assistant and members of Nyumba Kumi community policing were involved as key informants. A sample size of 120 respondents was used in the study. Qualitative data were analysed using content analysis method and Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). The findings of the study revealed that vigilante groups exist in Kariobangi North, Nairobi County. These groups engage in a wide array of activities that help in managing crime in the area. It was established that their activities in Kariobangi North had impacted positively on crime management. The findings may inform policymakers to come up with appropriate policies and legislation to deal with crime in the country. The findings of the study may also provide additional insights into the role of vigilante groups in crime management. The study concludes that insecurity is the main reason for the emergence of vigilante groups. Vigilante groups engage in a number of activities, both positive and negative. Vigilantism in the area has resulted in better management of security by complementing formal security management agencies. Several strategies can be put in place to support vigilante groups in crime management. The study recommends that the government and other stakeholders should come up with youth empowerment programs to reduce the high rate of unemployment and idleness, which leads to crime. Vigilante group activities should be regulated by the government to ensure that vigilantes only engage in positive activities, sensitization on the role of vigilante groups to be done at the community level and strategies be put in place to support vigilante groups’ role in crime management.