KAKUMA – Kakuma Refugee Camp Manager and Head of the Department of Refugee Services (DRS), Thomas Siele, has issued a stern warning to refugees against participating in criminal activities.
Speaking to the press on Friday, August 15, Siele cautioned that individuals who compromise national security or threaten local communities face severe legal repercussions, including the potential revocation of their refugee status under the Refugees Act of 2021.
Siele emphasized that criminal behavior within the camp carries ramifications that extend far beyond standard prosecution. He noted that the government will strictly enforce national laws to protect public safety, making it clear that a review of refugee status remains a direct consequence for anyone interfering with the country’s security.
In addition to security matters, the camp manager urged residents to take full advantage of official documentation services offered by the DRS. Siele reaffirmed that all document issuance within the camp is completely free of charge, issuing a strong warning to government personnel against extortion and corrupt practices while declaring the facility a strict zero-tolerance zone for corruption.
Addressing registration delays, Siele disclosed that the department has taken active measures to clear a historic backlog of approximately 10,000 refugee identity cards. The registration office is currently distributing around 300 identity cards daily, significantly speeding up the retrieval process for applicants.
Siele highlighted that obtaining official identity cards is essential for refugees to access vital services, particularly Social Health Authority (SHA) registration and mobile SIM card activation. He called upon local community leaders to assist in tracing applicants so refugees can collect their ready identification cards and promptly register for necessary healthcare services.
