Kisumu County Commissioner Benson Leparmorijo has issued a stern warning to recently released convicts accused of reigniting a wave of insecurity across the county, accusing them of targeting whistleblowers and operating under the protection of influential political figures.
Speaking during a live broadcast on vernacular radio station Sky FM, Leparmorijo condemned what he described as a dangerous resurgence of “vengeful and emboldened” criminals, many of whom are now actively threatening civilians who previously aided in their arrest.
“The problem is that they’re back on a revenge mission, threatening the public so they won’t get arrested again. We will not spare them,” the commissioner declared.
He revealed that several known offenders had been released on bond, some using motorbikes as security, others posting hefty cash bail, raising fears of political interference in ongoing security operations.
“There’s a criminal ring operating with political protection. We arrested Oliver Ochieng Jaoko, alias Oliveti, but he was bailed out by a politician at KSh 200,000. He should be behind bars,” he said.
According to Leparmorijo, these individuals are not only resuming their criminal activities but also recruiting vulnerable youth into gang networks operating in Kisumu’s informal settlements, escalating lawlessness and fear.
He identified known hotspots including Bandari, Nyamasaria, Nyalenda, and parts of Milimani, where gang-related incidents have become increasingly brazen. However, he assured the public that intelligence-led crackdowns had already yielded significant arrests. Those apprehended in March include:
- Collins Idambo Mbalanya (34)
- Ronald Kelvin, alias Basenga (28)
- Evans Omondi Ngege, alias Jerry – Suspected in the murder of a Kisumu businesswoman
“These were tactful operations. The gangs had informers on the ground, but we managed to dismantle some of their networks,” he noted.
Leparmorijo also issued a strong rebuke to rogue police officers suspected of colluding with criminal networks.
“Any officer found aiding these criminals will face arrest, be charged in court, and dismissed from the service,” he said.
On broader county security, the commissioner reported progress in restoring law and order at Kisumu Bus Park, though issues like luggage theft and phone snatching persist. He announced the imminent transfer of overstayed officers at the station and a plan to address the influx of street children, particularly those arriving from outside Kisumu.
In the rural outskirts, Leparmorijo cited an alarming rise in cattle theft, especially in Nyakach, Nyando, and Kisumu East, pointing to suspicions of underground slaughterhouses. He warned veterinary officers against approving meat from unidentified sources, stressing that investigations are ongoing.
“We cannot allow Kisumu to be a haven for criminals. We are on high alert and we are not stopping,” he affirmed.
In his concluding remarks, the commissioner called on youth to pursue productive ventures, cautioning against reliance on politicians who exploit them for rallies and protection duties.
“Youths must stop grouping in hundreds to guard politicians who give them peanuts. Climate jobs are coming, and those opportunities will be for you. Let’s build a future—not waste it,” he urged.
Leparmorijo also challenged elected leaders to empower young people meaningfully rather than using them for short-term political gain.
The commissioner reiterated the government’s commitment to working closely with community policing units, administrators, and the public to restore lasting peace and security in Kisumu County.
