Migori: Migori town residents have urged the police to intensify efforts to curb insecurity in the town and its environs. Speaking to the media, the Secretary General of the Migori Town Resident Association, George Odhiambo, said that residents, business owners, and workers around the Oruba area on the outskirts of Migori town live in fear of being attacked, robbed, and injured by emerging criminal groups.
According to Kenya News Agency, Odhiambo stated that the majority of people living within the Oruba area are forced to head home early, while businesses are forced to close by 8 pm for fear of being attacked and robbed. Odhiambo called for increased police patrols at night in the affected areas and urged targeting criminal gangs and their networks to restore normalcy.
The official also highlighted that security lights along the Oruba area have been vandalized, creating opportunities for criminal activities. He condemned robberies and break-ins, asserting that the safety of Migori town residents was non-negotiable. Odhiambo emphasized the need for immediate and visible action from the police and relevant security agencies to address and curb these negative vices.
Odhiambo also urged political leaders not to remain silent or spread propaganda about the residents’ safety, stressing that security is the foundation of good leadership. He called on politicians to advocate for the safety and livelihoods of the residents.
Robert Juma, a businessperson in the Oruba area, reported that insecurity has worsened since the beginning of the year, affecting business profits. Juma explained that businesses peak between 5 pm and 9 pm, but they are forced to close by 8 pm due to safety concerns.
Government offices have also been targeted, with criminal gangs stealing water pipes, meters, and metal materials. A recent attack on the Migori KNA office resulted in the vandalism of a vehicle and theft of a car battery.
Earlier this month, Migori County Police Commander Joel Kiptum warned criminal entities to cease their activities, urged unlicensed gun holders to surrender illegal firearms, and cautioned those engaging in illegal businesses to stop or face legal consequences.