Police in Kisumu East Sub-County have intensified operations against criminals and illicit brew dealers under the leadership of the new OCPD, Edward Wafula Masibo. The sustained crackdown aims to restore order in a region plagued by rising insecurity and illicit activities.
Speaking at Kasagam Police Station on December 9, 2024, Masibo commended residents for their cooperation in identifying criminals and called for enhanced public-police collaboration. He announced the establishment of a 24-hour hotline to facilitate seamless communication, urging the public to report suspicious activities without fear.
“The community has been instrumental in providing intelligence that has led to successful operations. Together, we will ensure Kisumu East is safe for all residents,” said Masibo.
Swift Action Yields Arrests of Armed Criminals
In a dramatic operation on November 29, police foiled a robbery attempt along the Kisumu-Nairobi highway near the CFAO center. Officers on an undercover mission were ambushed by a gang of five armed with crude weapons. In the ensuing melee, three suspects were arrested while two others escaped into the darkness.
Among those apprehended were:
- Wesley John Oyugi, 27, who sustained a leg injury during the altercation.
- Elly Omondi Oyugi, 22.
- Isaac Ochieng, 24.
Crude weapons, including machetes and pangas, were recovered. “These criminals have terrorized innocent residents for too long. Their capture is a clear warning to others engaging in similar acts,” said an officer involved in the operation.
Dawn Raid Nets Eight Dangerous Criminals
On December 6, a police operation in Buoye Sub-Location targeted notorious criminals who ambushed pedestrians near Angola Bridge. Guided by the local assistant chief, officers conducted a dawn raid, arresting eight suspects and recovering crude weapons and 2 kilograms of cannabis sativa.
The arrested individuals include:
- John Onyango, 28.
- Charles Nyumba, 30.
- Rebecca Achieng, 35, among others.
Two suspects managed to evade the dragnet but remain at large. Police confirmed that the suspects will be arraigned in court on December 9.
Illicit Brew Den Raided in Gita
In another operation on December 7, police targeted illicit brew dens in Oriang village, Gita Location. Officers destroyed 2,000 liters of kangara (fermented brew) and arrested four individuals found in possession of chang’aa:
- Douglas Jabunga with 20 liters.
- Florence Kidigura with 40 liters.
- Geoffrey Kipkemboi with 50 liters.
- William Kipruto with 20 liters.
“The crackdown on illicit brews will continue to mitigate their harmful effects on our community,” stated Masibo.
Community Collaboration is Key
Masibo emphasized that maintaining peace during the festive season requires vigilance from both law enforcement and the public. “We urge residents to embrace the hotline, report crimes promptly, and avoid altercations that lead to unnecessary loss of life,” he said.
The Kisumu East police pledge to sustain their efforts, with additional raids planned across the sub-county to curb criminal activities and ensure a peaceful holiday season.
