Police in Nyakach Sub-county, Kisumu, have launched investigations into the brutal murder of a village elder who was attacked by suspected criminals during a night vigil on Friday.
Joseph Otieno Odhiambo, 54, was fatally hacked when assailants stormed a vigil held for the late Peres Owuor in Saema village at approximately 11:20 p.m. The attackers, armed with machetes, inflicted multiple deep wounds on his head, killing him instantly.
According to Junior Onyango Omollo, Assistant Chief of Kajimbo Sub-location, Odhiambo had been part of the security team at the event when the attackers struck. “The deceased was providing security as usual when they were ambushed. Sadly, he was murdered in the process by people well known in the village,” Omollo stated.
Upper Nyakach Assistant County Commissioner Orina Dawin, who visited the scene with security officers, strongly condemned the killing. “I strongly condemn this barbaric murder. Those responsible will face the full force of the law. I urge police officers to heighten night patrols to curb insecurity in the area,” Orina stated.
While the motive behind the attack remains unclear, community members have identified two suspects, Stephen Ondigo and his brother, Collins Ondigo, both from the neighboring Kagak village. Police have yet to establish whether the attack was premeditated or the result of an ongoing dispute.
The incident has left the village in shock and mourning, with residents calling for swift justice. Many community members have expressed concern over the rising insecurity in the region, urging law enforcement to take decisive action.
Nyakach Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) officers have since moved Odhiambo’s body to Nyabondo Mission Hospital morgue for a postmortem examination as investigations continue. Law enforcement authorities have assured the public that those responsible for the heinous act will be apprehended and brought to justice.
The tragic killing of Odhiambo has reignited conversations around security measures during public gatherings, with calls for better protection of community leaders who often play crucial ro
