Police in Nyakach Subcounty, Kisumu, are investigating the brutal killing of a 54-year-old village elder, who was attacked by suspected criminals during a night vigil on Friday night.
The deceased, Joseph Otieno Odhiambo, was fatally hacked by a gang that stormed the vigil for the late Peres Owuor in Saema village at around 11:20 p.m.. Witnesses say the assailants, armed with machetes, slashed him multiple times on the head, killing him on the spot.
According to Junior Onyango Omollo, Assistant Chief of Kajimbo Sublocation, the elder was part of the security team providing protection at the event.
“The deceased was among the security team ensuring order at the vigil. Unfortunately, they were ambushed, and he was murdered by people well known in the village,” Omollo stated.
Upper Nyakach Assistant County Commissioner Orina Dawin visited the crime scene alongside security officers and strongly condemned the attack.
“I strongly condemn this barbaric killing. Those responsible will face the full force of the law. I urge police officers to heighten night patrols to curb insecurity in the area,” Orina stated.
The motive behind the attack remains unclear, and the suspects are still at large. Authorities have launched a manhunt for the killers as the village remains in mourning.
Residents are calling for urgent action to address rising insecurity in the area, urging law enforcement to ensure justice is served.
