Police in Rachuonyo East sub-county have arrested two suspects in connection with the recent torching of a pastor’s car by locals in Jwela village, Ramula location, over the suspicion that it belonged to cattle rustlers. The incident occurred when the pastor, who had been meeting a lady friend, parked his car along a road leading to River Miriu.
The residents, believing the vehicle to be associated with cattle rustling activities, set up three roadblocks using boulders and kept watch from 8:30 pm to 9:00 pm. They later regrouped between 10:00 pm and 11:00 pm, waiting for the car’s owner to return. When the pastor arrived, an altercation ensued. According to an eyewitness, the pastor was attacked as he tried to return to his car. His lady companion fled the scene into the darkness. The pastor, who attempted to escape, was pushed back into the vehicle, but he eventually managed to flee with injuries.
The residents, angered by the suspicion of the car’s involvement in cattle rustling, proceeded to set the vehicle ablaze after the pastor had fled. Ramula location chief, Judith Gumbo Ayodo, confirmed that two suspects had been arrested and were being held at Senta Sori police station as investigations continue. The chief warned residents against taking the law into their own hands, emphasizing that any unlawful actions would result in arrests and prosecution.
This incident highlights the growing concerns among local communities about the frequent theft of livestock, which has led to a rise in vigilantism. Just last month, a similar event occurred in Kakoth village, where residents torched a vehicle used by suspected cattle rustlers. One of the suspects was lynched, while the other narrowly escaped.
Local authorities are urging residents to report such incidents to the police, rather than resorting to violence, to ensure justice is served in a lawful manner.
