By Joel Clinton
Residents of Kisumu West, especially those in Lower Kotetni, Round, Pombo, Ngege Beach and its environs, are living in fear, with cases of insecurity on the rise. For several months now, the thick bushes and badly lit footpaths in the area have been insecure grounds where women and children get ambushed, robbed, and in some incidents brutally attacked.
Women have been the most vocal, raising an alarm over increasing incidents that mostly happen either early in the morning or late in the evening. Many recalled terrifying moments where armed criminals emerged from the bushes, stealing belongings and threatening their lives. Parents also fear for their children who walk to school at dawn while traders are worried for safe passage home after the close of business.
Adding to the anxiety are reported cases of killings linked to night attacks within the region. The residents describe the situation as getting worse week by week, with some families opting to temporarily relocate for their own safety.
The Area Chief Osege has confirmed the worrying trend, pointing out the increasing frustration among residents. He said while the community leaders and security teams are doing their best to respond, the situation has been compounded by limited manpower, scarce resources, and the wide geographical coverage of the affected areas.
“We are trying, but we lack the officers and equipment to patrol the region effectively,” explained the chief. “Most sections have no security lights, making it easy for criminals to hide and strike without being noticed.”
The lack of lighting along major paths and residential clusters has made night movement extremely hazardous, forcing many citizens indoors long before dusk. According to local leaders, the bushes have overgrown and now have a thickness that provides a natural cover for attackers, making surveillance barely effective.
The community members are now calling upon the national government, county authorities, and local security agencies to intervene before the situation gets out of hand. They have appealed for an increase in police presence, installation of security lights, regular bush clearing, and community policing initiatives as a way of restoring peace.
Despite fear and tension, residents believe that with combined efforts and improved security, Kisumu West can be safe again, allowing families to live and move everywhere without fear.
