Residents of Mochenwa village in Nyamira County have accused area police officers of allegedly working with a criminal gang that has reportedly given those sleepless nights and subsequent killing of a number of residents.
Speaking on Sunday during an emergency meeting to discuss the mysterious death of Mr Johnson Omache, who was reportedly murdered and his body dumped in a nearby river, they accused the government of failing to give them enough protection leading to the murder of at least four residents in span of two months.
According to them, the gang that is alleged to be carrying out the atrocities, is said to be collaborating with a section of Keroka police officers.
“We are a dire need of improved security. This is the fourth person to die in the locality and we aren’t happy with it. The criminal gang is well known and apparently they disguise themselves in police uniforms an indication that even the police are aware of it,” said Mr Abel Nyaribo on behalf of the residents.
They threatened to hold a mass protest over the area security personnel calling for an immediate action from the Ministry of Interior.
“The ministry has an obligation to investigate some of its officers. We have credible evidence that some of them have been working with the gangsters to rob innocent Kenyans besides killing those who don’t cooperate. If no action is taken, we will pour into streets,” he added.
However, Keroka deputy OCS Benson Kipkorir denied the allegations and urged residents to desist from dragging names of police officers to the saga since the investigations were ongoing.
“The issue of insecurity at Mochenwa is well known with us and in fact we are in the process of pursuing the culprits who are operating as a network. It will be crucial if the residents desist from making predetermined conclusions,” he said.