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Kakamega County has been recording an increased number of chicken theft cases in the last couple of weeks.
A section of traders interviewed in Kakamega town said they have incurred huge losses after their birds were stolen from their stalls at Masingo market.
“Our birds are in danger and so is our business, we have reported the theft cases to the police but no action has been taken, surprisingly the nightguards cannot tell how the chicken are stolen,” said a seller, who did not want to be named fearing for her safety.
Led by Josphat Lukoye, the traders claimed that for the last two weeks they have lost almost 50 chickens in 12 attacks. The birds were stolen at night.
“We have changed our guards many times but the trend appears to be going on, we suspect those behind the theft could be using mysterious powers as they are able to carry away unnoticed by our guards,” said Lukoye.
Usually, the night guards learn of the theft in the mornings. “Last week my store was broken into and I lost 12 chickens at once, the matter was reported at Kakamega Central Police station and the officers promised to investigate the matter,” said Lukoye.
“Imagine someone comes in and breaks into your store, our watchmen notices nothing, initially, we thought they were colluding to steal from us but with time we have discovered the guards are clueless whenever the thieves make a raid.”
Ken Muhanda said he lost 10 chickens one week ago just after stocking for Christmas celebrations and he has resorted to locking up the remaining birds in a house.
“The cases are rampant because chicken is on-demand as is the trend during Christmas holidays, thieves could be making a killing out of the stolen birds whose prices have shot,” said Muhanda.
A mature cock is selling at between Sh1000 and Sh1,300 in Kakamega while hens are going at between Sh800 and Sh1, 000 depending on size and weight.
Residents have urged security agencies in the area to intensify patrols and bring to book individuals behind chicken theft.
Kakamega Central Deputy County Commissioner Ngalia Ndaya had earlier indicated that security has been beefed up to address cases of insecurity in the area.
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