KAKAMEGA, Kenya — Tension is high in Lurambi, Kakamega County, after two men were found dead in separate incidents on Monday night. Police have opened investigations as local residents express fear and frustration over what they say is a growing wave of insecurity.
The first victim, a night guard stationed at a local petrol station, was killed by a group of robbers. The attackers struck just a few hundred metres from a police post.
“He was ambushed in the dark,” said Evans Shimonyo, a nearby resident who knew the victim. “This place isn’t safe anymore. We live in fear.”
Hours later, about two kilometres away, a second body was discovered by the roadside in Shimalavandu, near the Kakamega–Webuye highway. The man appeared to have been left there overnight.
“It’s unclear who he was or how he died,” said a local officer, who spoke on condition of anonymity as they were not authorised to comment. “But we are treating this seriously.”
Kakamega OCPD Vincent Cherutich confirmed both deaths and said full investigations are underway.
“We are following all leads,” Mr Cherutich told The Standard. “Our officers are on the ground gathering information from witnesses and nearby businesses.”
The twin incidents have rattled residents, many of whom have taken to the streets to protest. Their message is clear: they want action, not promises.
“This didn’t start yesterday,” said Teresa Nanjala, a fruit vendor near the highway. “We’ve been raising concerns for months. Now two people are dead.”
Security has become a recurring concern in Kakamega County, especially in semi-urban areas where police presence is limited after dark. In recent weeks, locals have reported a rise in break-ins, muggings, and assaults.
While the police have promised to increase patrols, residents say more needs to be done.
“We’re tired of statements,” said John Omondi, a boda boda rider. “We need real protection. We just want to live without fear.”
No arrests have been made yet. Police are urging anyone with information to come forward.
As investigations continue, the families of the victims now face the painful task of burying their loved ones—amid a deepening worry that unless something changes, they may not be the last.
