Kakamega Senator Bonny Khalwale has raised alarm over the rising crime rates in Butere, Mumias West, and Khwisero constituencies, accusing both criminals and law enforcement officials of creating an environment where residents live in constant fear. The senator’s concerns come amid a growing sense of insecurity in these areas, with reports of violent crime, including killings and thefts, on the rise.
Speaking at a church service in Khwisero on Sunday, Khalwale revealed the extent of the violence, stating that last month, the community buried two brothers in Marama, and this month, six more people, including two village elders and a watchman, had been laid to rest in Butere. These deaths, Khalwale explained, were the tragic consequences of criminal activity that had escalated in recent months. The senator’s remarks painted a grim picture of a county where citizens are now living under the constant threat of violent attacks.
“There is a growing trend of criminals breaking into homes, stealing property, and in some cases, even killing their victims. It’s no longer safe for people to carry on their daily activities, whether at home or in the field,” Khalwale said. The senator’s words echoed the fears of the residents, who have been forced to take extreme precautions just to safeguard their homes and families.
Local farmers are particularly affected, as thieves have been targeting livestock and crops. Reports of house break-ins have become alarmingly frequent, with some residents losing everything, including vital farming tools and livestock that sustain their livelihoods. The continued criminal activity has left a heavy toll on the community, eroding the sense of safety that people once took for granted.
One of the most troubling aspects of the crime wave, according to Khalwale, is the alleged complicity of local law enforcement and community officials. The senator accused corrupt officers of working in cahoots with the criminals, either turning a blind eye to their activities or actively facilitating them. In particular, Khalwale pointed out the shocking claims that two local chiefs, despite being implicated in criminal acts such as cattle rustling and even murder, were still in office.
“The sad thing is that corruption in the system has allowed these individuals to remain in positions of power. One chief aided in cattle rustling, and another is linked to a murder. This is unacceptable, and it is a clear indication that the system is broken,” Khalwale said, urging the government to take decisive action.
The situation has created a climate of fear, with many residents of Butere, Mumias West, and Khwisero feeling abandoned by the very authorities that are supposed to protect them. Several community members have expressed their frustration, alleging that local Nyumba Kumi officials and police officers may be colluding with criminals, further deepening the crisis.
Khalwale has called for immediate government intervention to address the issue of security. He urged the government to ensure that any officers or community leaders found to be involved in criminal activities are removed from their positions. He emphasized that the safety of the people must come first and that officials who are not upholding the law should be held accountable.
“The government must act swiftly to remove those who are colluding with criminals. Only then will the people of Butere, Mumias, and Khwisero be able to live in peace and security,” Khalwale concluded.
The senator’s comments highlight a broader concern about the state of law enforcement in rural parts of Kenya, where corruption, inefficiency, and complacency among local officials can lead to widespread insecurity. As crime continues to ravage the communities, it is clear that the residents of Butere, Mumias West, and Khwisero need urgent intervention to restore safety and justice in their lives.
