Kakamega leaders demand transfer of police after series of killings

Kakamega Governor Wycliffe Oparanya. [Standard]

County leaders have demanded change in the police command after a series of killings in the region.

The leaders among them Governor Wycliffe Oparanya told the police to enhance security or be transferred.

The demands come after a series of killings over the past few months, with the latest happening in Matungu sub-county.

"We cannot have a gang killing people anyhow while the same people pay taxes to be protected by the police," said Oparanya.

Speaking in Mumias town, the governor accompanied by several MPs promised to push for police reforms.

County Woman Representative Elsie Muhanda threatened to mobilise protests if the killings continue.

More than 13 people have been killed in the past month in Matungu. 

According to the police, they are doing their best to apprehend the criminals in Matungu.

The number of suspects killed now stands at seven.

Two of the suspects were gunned down by police three weeks ago while the rest were lynched by mobs.

Matungu Police Commander John Mastili, however, warned locals against lynching suspects.

The lynching of suspects happened in Matungu centre, Ejinja and Koyonzo.

Most of the killings have been attributed to criminal gangs, including the dreaded 14 Brothers.