By Joel Clinton
Ahero town in Kisumu County is facing a troubling rise in insecurity. Incidents of armed robbery, killings, and gang activity have left residents in fear. Once a peaceful trading center connecting Kisumu to the western corridor, Ahero has recently turned into a hotspot for violent crime, shaking public confidence in local security agencies.
Residents report that criminal activities are happening more often, especially around the Ahero Postal Office and along the Kisumu-Busia highway. Armed robbery cases targeting business owners, motorists, and pedestrians have made the community uneasy. The recent discovery of a young man beheaded behind Ahero Girls High School on October 21 has increased anger and concern, prompting locals to demand swift justice and better security measures.
Residents cite several reasons for the rising insecurity. Many blame the increasing number of unemployed youth, some of whom have resorted to crime for survival. Others mention the poor coordination among police units, noting that the Kenya Police and Administration Police often do not work well together. Reports of slow response times and failure to respond to emergency calls have deepened public frustration.
“We live in fear every night. The police only come after the criminals have left,” said one resident who runs a small kiosk near the main stage. Another trader along the highway expressed similar feelings, saying, “We have lost faith in the system. We are tired of watching our people die while nothing is done.”
The situation is made worse by allegations of corruption and misconduct within the security forces. Some residents accuse certain officers of working with the gang who are believed to be behind several recent attacks. Claims of bribery and evidence tampering have eroded public trust. Community members are now calling on local leaders and the county government to take urgent action.
There are rising calls for demonstrations if authorities do not respond. As fear grips the town, Ahero’s residents demand not just more patrols but also accountability from those responsible for their safety. For now, life in Ahero remains overshadowed by uncertainty a community caught between hope for change and the harsh reality of insecurity.
