The traders lamented the increased robbery with violence by the group of individuals who target businesses, especially M-Pesa shops and wholesalers.
Led by the chairman of the trader’s association, Jack Nyambega, they said the robbers attacked the unsuspecting victims with crude weapons before robbing them of their money. Most times they leave the victims unconscious.
In a span of one week, three traders have been attacked by the suspects around Shauri Yako and the bank road estates within Homa Bay town and are now nursing injuries.
“So far there are three traders who have been attacked, robbed, and are now admitted to the hospital,” he noted.
Nyambega emphasized the need for increased police patrol in order to enhance security in the region.
Homa Bay town subcounty Police Commander Emmanuel Kiplagat said they have put in place several measures, including intensified patrols to nab the suspected thieves and restore peace and order in the region.
“We have also teamed up with the National Government Administration Officers to end these robbery incidents once and for all. We have also set up active day and night patrols within the town,” he stated.
The commander further said that they have involved the intelligence department to investigate and get to the root cause of the matter.
Kiplagat said the rule of law will take its course and urged residents to be alert and volunteer any information regarding the robbery incidents to the authorities.
By Sitna Omar