Traders and bodaboda operators at Ahero Market in Nyando Constituency have raised concern over rising insecurity, saying criminal activities have negatively affected business operations in the area.
The traders accused a group of young men known as “Chude Chude” of terrorising residents and customers at the busy market, with reports linking the gang to muggings, break-ins, violent robberies, and killings in Ahero town and surrounding areas.
Ahero Bodaboda Riders Association Chairperson Barack Odindo said insecurity has resurfaced, citing a recent attack in which one rider was killed and another seriously injured.
“The issue of security is a collective responsibility. As the bodaboda sector, we are working closely with security agencies to identify and eliminate criminal elements,” he said.
Local trader Benard Rajoro said businesses have suffered heavy losses due to repeated break-ins and declining sales, as many traders now close early for fear of attacks while heading home.
Resident Jael Opondo urged security agencies to act swiftly, warning that the situation could worsen if left unchecked.
“Residents are tired of what is happening and require urgent action from authorities before it gets out of hand,” she said.
Another resident, Daniel Auka, called for increased night patrols, noting that poor lighting has made areas such as the Ahero junction interchange highly dangerous after dark.
He urged the Kenya National Highways Authority and Kenya Power and Lighting Company to install street lighting from Ahero town to the junction to improve safety and deter criminals.
Auka said travellers, especially those unfamiliar with the area, are frequently targeted at the junction, with at least three mugging incidents reported in recent days.
“Many travellers alighting at Ahero junction at dawn are attacked and robbed. Most are visitors travelling from Nairobi heading to Sondu, Katito, or Kisii and are unfamiliar with the area,” he said.
He advised travellers to alight within Ahero town, where lighting is better and security is relatively stronger.
Despite growing concern, Nyando Deputy County Commissioner Elijah Maranga assured residents that security agencies have intensified patrols in identified hotspots within Ahero town.
He said police operations have been scaled up to curb criminal activities and restore order in the area.
“We have intensified patrols in areas identified as crime hotspots within Ahero town,” said Maranga.
He further announced plans to engage bodaboda operators and other stakeholders in coordinated efforts to address insecurity, urging residents to share information that could help apprehend suspects.
Meanwhile, traders continue to operate under fear, saying insecurity has disrupted livelihoods and reduced customer turnout, especially during evening hours.
They are calling for sustained police presence, improved lighting infrastructure, and community cooperation to restore safety and revive business activity at the market.
By Robert Ojwang’
