Two security guards identified as John Ngomere Nyapola and Humphrey Muyomiwere were brutally murdered in Matungu, Kakamega County on Saturday, March 30 night.

The bodies of these two security guards were discovered dumped at Koyonzo market, sparking shock and outrage among Kakamega residents.

According to reports, unknown individuals broke into a shop, stole property of undisclosed value before committing the heinous acts.

They then reportedly proceeded to place the two bodies in an iron shed located within a market that was under construction.

Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa in a statement condemned the heinous act, emphasizing the need for swift investigations to apprehend the unknown assailants responsible for this barbaric crime.

Kakamega Governor Speaks on the Matter

In the statement made on Sunday, March 31, Governor Fernandes said, “I have this morning received disturbing news of the unfortunate killing of two security guards who were butchered while on duty last night by unknown assailants, and their bodies dumped at Koyonzo market in Matungu sub-county,” 

“This inhumane and barbaric act has untimely cut short the lives of John Ngomere Nyapola and Humphrey Muyomi, both from Murabe village in Namamali ward, who were on duty fending for their families.”

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He also called on residents to help bring the culprits to book by volunteering any information to authorities.

“I call upon anyone with leads that may assist in unravelling the whereabouts of the culprits to volunteer such information to the nearest police station,” he added.

The Governor’s call for justice has resonated deeply with the community, igniting a fervent demand for accountability and closure in the face of such senseless violence.

Residents Clash with Police

As tensions escalated in Koyonzo following the tragic deaths of the night guards, the community mobilized in protest accusing the police of colluding with criminals.

Irate villagers clashed with the officers who were attempting to retrieve the bodies, engaging in intense confrontations.

The villagers reportedly hurled stones at the officers, prompting them to retreat for their safety.

After regrouping, the officers countercharged the rioting villagers, deploying teargas canisters to disperse the protesters and retrieve the two bodies.

The protesters continued their pursuit of the officers beyond the police post, demanding a complete overhaul of the officers stationed there, located just a stone’s throw away from the market.

Local Residents Voice Their Frustration

Shadrack Mukoya, a resident, highlighted the escalating incidents of robbery, burglary, and theft in the area, underscoring the pressing need for enhanced security measures.

“A section of the police officers is working with criminals who are stealing from us. When we report to the authorities after attacks, they remain quiet,” said Mr Mukoya.

Samuel Barasa, a sibling of one of the deceased night guards, revealed that their father generously donated the land where the police post now stands.

Expressing disappointment in the lack of assistance from the stationed officers, Mr. Barasa emphasized the family’s demand for the return of their land.

He highlighted the initial intention behind the land donation to enhance security in the area, underscoring the family’s frustration with the perceived lack of support from the police officers.

“As a family, we knew that this would improve the security in this area. But the police who were posted here are not helping us. We, therefore, demand our land back,” said Mr. Barasa.

Community Efforts to Seek Justice

The palpable sense of unease and anger has prompted a collective effort to seek justice for the victims and ensure that those behind these despicable acts are brought to account.

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The tragic loss of Nyapola and Muyomi has not only left their families devastated but has also galvanized the community to stand together in the pursuit of truth and closure.

As the investigation unfolds and the search for the perpetrators intensifies, the people of Kakamega remain resolute in their quest for justice and their commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of all residents in the wake of these horrific events.