Many traders and residents at the busy Ahero Market say security has greatly declined in recent weeks. Criminal groups are now attacking people in the early morning and late evening when the town is quiet and dark.
One victim is a boda boda rider named Clement Onyango who is still recovering from serious injuries after a brutal attack. The rider said he was escorting his wife to board a matatu heading to Sondu when two young men confronted him.
The attack happened early in the morning on April 3 near a busy roundabout in the town. According to Onyango the attackers demanded his mobile phone but he refused to hand it over.
One of the criminals then cut him with a machete leaving him badly injured. Onyango said he believes he survived because his wife screamed loudly which attracted people nearby and forced the attackers to escape.
He was rushed to Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital where doctors treated his wounds. His story reflects the growing danger faced by many residents.
Locals say the gang mostly targets traders travelers and boda boda riders who operate early in the morning. Many victims report losing phones money and other valuables during the attacks.
Residents believe the criminals are young men aged between 15 and 26 years. They usually carry knives machetes and other crude weapons which they use to threaten victims.
The gang known as Chude Chude has become widely feared in the region. Members of the group have been linked to several violent attacks especially along the busy Kisumu Nairobi Highway.
In one disturbing incident a suspected gang member who had been rescued by police was later attacked by angry residents. The suspect had been taken to Nyang’ande Sub County Hospital for treatment.
However angry locals stormed the hospital and beat the suspect to death outside the facility. The incident showed how tension has been rising between residents and suspected criminals.
Business owners at Ahero Market say insecurity has forced them to close their shops earlier than usual. Many fear they could be attacked while returning home at night.
There is also growing hostility between boda boda riders and members of the gang. Residents say several revenge attacks have taken place as both sides accuse each other of killings.
Last Sunday a boda boda rider was killed in an incident believed to be linked to retaliation between the two groups.Authorities have now promised to take action.
Nyando Deputy County Commissioner Elijah Maranga recently held a security meeting attended by Ahero Sub County Police Commander Isaiah Mose and other officers.
Officials say police have arrested several suspects but cases collapse because witnesses fear testifying in court. Investigators are also reviewing CCTV footage from a nearby Total Petrol Station to identify attackers.
Security officers have also launched investigations into claims that the gang may be receiving support from powerful reminder.
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