Kisumu: The embattled Chairlady of Kibuye Market, filmed violently attacking two businesswomen, has been arrested. Judith Matengo, widely known as Nyaramba, was apprehended following a police operation in Kisumu, after the incident caused public uproar and renewed concerns about security and leadership issues in one of the region’s largest open-air markets.
According to Kenya News Agency, the attack occurred on Monday at around 4 p.m., as reported in a police report filed at Kondele Police Station under OB 42/17/11/2025. The victims, Mercy Otieno Okoth and Rozzette Adhiambo, were holding a routine chamaa meeting at Kibuye Market when a group of approximately ten people stormed the venue. The victims claim the group was led by Matengo, who allegedly confronted them while armed with a wooden rod, before launching an assault that left both women with serious injuries.
Footage widely circulated on social media shows a woman, believed to be the chairlady, striking one of the victims repeatedly as she lies on the ground. Confirming the incident, Kisumu Central Deputy Sub-county Police Commander, Bakari Mwanauli, stated that Mercy Otieno sustained severe injuries to her face, shoulders, arms, and back. Rozzette Adhiambo suffered injuries to her shoulders, ribs, arms, and back. Police responding to the scene found the suspect had already fled.
Officers escorted the victims to Lumumba Sub-county Hospital, where they continue to receive treatment as investigations proceed. Hours after the assault, detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigation (DCI) and a team from Kondele Police Station launched an operation to locate Matengo. The operation, led by Kondele Police Station Commander, Daniel Ogechi, extended into the night.
The suspect engaged officers in a chase within Kibuye Market, attempting to evade arrest by hiding in various stalls. She was eventually found and booked at the Kisumu Railway Police Station under OB 02/18/11/2025 at 3 a.m. Matengo faces preliminary charges of assault, though additional charges may be forthcoming as the investigation continues. Her accomplices remain at large, and efforts to identify and apprehend them are ongoing.
Mwanauli stated that all suspects involved are being pursued and will face legal consequences. Police have also launched a parallel investigation to determine the motive behind the attack, which has sparked concern among traders at Kibuye Market. The incident has revived discussions about leadership disputes and security challenges within the market.
The victims, both well-known traders, are expected to record further statements once their condition stabilizes. The suspect is set to be arraigned in court later today.
