Security agencies in Vihiga County have nabbed and prosecuted four suspects in connection with the wave of criminal activities that have hit several parts within the county in last two months.
Details for some of the suspects were revealed to members of press during a security media briefing by area County Commissioner (CC) Mr. John Chelimo on Tuesday morning.
“Police officers have enhanced daily and night patrols across the county,” noted Chelimo who urged the locals to report any suspicious people to the nearest security agents, including village elders, assistant chiefs and chiefs.
According to records by the county security team, the four had been connected with nine armed robbery incidents that occurred at different locations in the county in recent past.
The latest incident occurred on Monday night when an armed gang attacked two homesteads in Kegoye village on boundary of Vihiga and Sabatia Sub Counties.
Police officers at Mbale station rushed to the scene where they rescued five victims who had sustained injuries of various magnitudes.
The five were admitted at Vihiga Referral Hospital where they are receiving treatment.
County Criminal Investigations Officer (CCIO) Mr. Paul Mumo said his department traced and arrested the four who were charged with various counts including robbery, rape, defilement and assault at Vihiga law court before they were remanded at Kodiaga Maximum Prison in Kisumu County.
He said the criminal gang, whose membership is between five and seven, invaded houses occupied either by women and children alone or elderly persons.
The report further indicated that television sets, music systems and mobile phones were the most sought after gadgets by the criminal that have caused shivers among county residents.
According to the CCIO, Chavakali town and surrounding villages are the worst hit areas saying legal consequences will be taken against offenders.
“We have technologically strengthened our investigation systems, thus making it hard for criminals to escape,” Mumo told journalists.
Area County Police Commander Mrs Beatrice Gachago and her administration police counterpart Mr. Charles Aketch were present.
By Maurice Aluda
