Kenya: Two Night Guards Killed in Morning Raid in Yala Amid Rising Watchmen Murders

29 January 2025

Kisumu — Two night guards were killed early Wednesday morning in Yala Township, Siaya County, bringing the total number of murdered watchmen this month to six.

Yala OCPD Chris Wafula said unknown assailants hacked the two guards to death, while one managed to escape into the darkness.

Wafula stated that the suspected thugs then broke into several shops, making away with valuables whose value has yet to be determined.

"We have launched investigations into the incident, which has now become a worrying trend in the county," said Wafula.

The slain guards sustained deep cuts to their heads and hands.

The guard who escaped raised an alarm, attracting the attention of residents within the township.

"By the time locals mobilized themselves, the guards were lying in a pool of blood, and the gang had fled," said the OCPD.

Wafula noted that traders were convening a meeting on Wednesday in partnership with local police to discuss strategies for preventing further thefts.

Security lapse

He urged traders to enlist the services of registered security firms capable of raising an alarm in time in case of an attack.

"Some of these guards report to work while drunk, while others are elderly and fall asleep as soon as they assume duty," he said.

The bodies of the deceased guards were taken to Yala Sub-County Hospital mortuary, pending postmortem examinations.

Just a week ago, two guards were killed, and property of unknown value was stolen when robbers raided Nyangoma Kogelo market at 3 a.m.

The victims, aged 29 and 42, succumbed to excessive blood loss caused by their injuries.

Earlier this month, two more night guards were killed in Sira market, Ugenya Sub-County, when robbers broke into a local entertainment joint at around 3 a.m.

The assailants stole entertainment equipment.

Police have yet to make any arrests in connection with the two incidents.

AllAfrica publishes around 500 reports a day from more than 110 news organizations and over 500 other institutions and individuals, representing a diversity of positions on every topic. We publish news and views ranging from vigorous opponents of governments to government publications and spokespersons. Publishers named above each report are responsible for their own content, which AllAfrica does not have the legal right to edit or correct.

Articles and commentaries that identify allAfrica.com as the publisher are produced or commissioned by AllAfrica. To address comments or complaints, please Contact us.