In a rare turn of events, the Kondele Police Station in Kisumu was transformed into a hub of festivity on Saturday, December 28, as hundreds of residents from Kondele gathered for an electrifying end-of-year celebration with police officers. The occasion marked a significant departure from the usual business of law enforcement, focusing instead on community engagement and unity.
Leaders and Stakeholders Unite
The celebration attracted a diverse group of leaders and stakeholders, including Kisumu County Commissioner Benson Leparmorijo, Kisumu City Residents Voice Association Chairman Audi Ogada, Bunge la Wananchi and Sufuria Movement leader Sospeter Obungu Owich, Kisumu Central Sub-County Police Commander Peter Mulai, and representatives from Kondele Transporters, Kondele Coffins Group, and Kondele Rescue Team.
Calls for Collaboration
Residents and leaders alike used the platform to emphasize the importance of working together to combat crime.
“We are requesting collaboration. Let us share information and report any issues to the OCS or a trusted police officer. Don’t take your complaints to Facebook, TikTok, or other social media platforms,” urged Ochieng Omwa, Kondele resident.
A village elder from Manyatta A encouraged greater attendance at public forums, stating:
“Let’s attend public barazas. In Manyatta A, we share a lot during these meetings, and most police officers are present to listen and help.”
Felistas Otuoma, popularly known as Mama Nyatingli and the organizing secretary for Manyatta A community policing, commended Kondele Police for their dedication. She highlighted the efforts of Mr. Daniel Ogechi,Kondele OCS, known for responding promptly to calls, even late at night.
“I used to fear police officers, but I’ve come to realize they are good people,” she remarked.
Celebrating Security Achievements
Sospeter Obungu Owich lauded the collaborative efforts of police officers, village elders, and community policing groups in reducing crime.
“Our police officers are our brothers and sisters. Thanks to their hard work, Kisumu enjoys peace and safety, unlike Nairobi, where cases of abduction are common,” he said.
Obungu praised the Kondele OCS for dismantling the infamous Dimbo gang, restoring order to the area, and commended the traffic police for maintaining safety on the roads.
Zero Tolerance for Crime
Kisumu County Commissioner Benson Leparmorijo thanked boda boda operators, village elders, and community policing groups for their role in combating crime. He reassured residents:
“No criminal will be tolerated. Those sending threats via text messages or calls will face the law. Let’s not fear; we are here to ensure your safety.”
Leparmorijo also highlighted attempts by certain individuals to disrupt Kisumu’s peace due to the city’s prominence in hosting high-profile events such as Africities, World Tourism Day, Festac, AFSNET, and the Sugar Industry Innovation Symposium.
A Community United
The end-year celebration underscored the growing bond between the police and the community, providing a platform for fostering trust, collaboration, and shared commitment to peace. As Kisumu looks to the future, the event symbolized a unified approach to creating a safer and more harmonious city.
