Police in Kisumu Central Sub-county have arrested Kibuye Market chairlady Judith Matengo, popularly known as Nyaramba, after a viral video showed her attacking two female traders with a wooden rod.
Nyaramba was apprehended on Monday night, November 17, while hiding within the market precincts, shortly after the footage sparked public outrage.
The victims, Mercy Okoth and Rozette Adhiambo, sustained soft-tissue injuries during the broad-daylight incident and later sought treatment at Lumumba Sub-county Hospital.
They both recorded statements with the police, who confirmed they are pursuing additional suspects believed to have been involved in the attack.
Authorities stated that Matengo will be arraigned on Tuesday, November 18, to face charges related to the attack. However, the cause of the assault remains unknown.
Kisumu Central MP Joshua Oron condemned the incident, describing it as unacceptable and a betrayal of public trust.
He stressed that intimidation and violence have no place in the community and urged authorities to take swift action against those responsible.
“If you must resort to beating traders just to secure support, then you have already lost the trust and confidence of the people. This kind of intimidation has no place in our community, and it must be condemned in the strongest terms possible. I call on all relevant authorities to take immediate action against the perpetrators,” he said.
The incident drew widespread condemnation on social media, with many alleging Nyaramba has a history of attacking traders.
