Leaders in Isiolo have condemned the killing of a businesswoman who was shot dead by armed assailants at the town’s main bus park, Monday night, calling for urgent measures to address rising insecurity in the area.
Ward representatives, Salesio Kiambi (Wabera), David Waithaka (Bulapesa) and Nicholas Lorot (Burat), expressed concern over recent incidents of violence, saying the attacks had resulted in loss of lives, property and affected business activities in the town.
They appealed to Interior Cabinet Secretary (CS), Kipchumba Murkomen, to enhance security operations in Isiolo, including deploying additional officers, if necessary, to restore confidence among residents and traders.
Angela Kananu was reportedly shot six times at close range before the attackers escaped. Isiolo Police Commander, Isaac Sang, confirmed that the businesswoman was attacked shortly after closing her shop at about 8 p.m.
Sang said the assailants also shot a motorcycle rider who had gone to pick up Kananu. The rider sustained gunshot injuries and is currently receiving treatment at Isiolo County Referral Hospital.
Kiambi noted that cattle theft had reduced following a government security operation launched earlier in the year but urged authorities to intensify efforts against emerging forms of violent crime.
He said the town required renewed security interventions to prevent criminals from undermining peace and economic activities.
Waithaka said Isiolo had enjoyed relative peace for many years and urged security agencies to treat the recent attacks with the seriousness they deserved.
“Loss of lives and property translates into reduced government revenue generated from the business community,” he said.
Lorot called for increased security ahead of the 2027 General Election, saying a stable environment was necessary to allow peaceful campaigns and enable residents to freely participate in democratic processes.
He disclosed that he survived a gun attack late last year and still has a bullet lodged in his shoulder, adding that no arrests have been made in connection with the incident.
The MCA urged the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) to conduct thorough investigations into Kananu’s murder and ensure those responsible are brought to justice.
The leaders also raised concern over rising motorcycle theft in the town, warning riders to remain cautious, especially when operating late at night.
“Owners of new motorcycles should remain vigilant, especially when operating late at night, as they have become prime targets for thieves,” Waithaka said.
Meanwhile, members of the business community held a peaceful demonstration, to protest Kananu’s killing. The protest later turned chaotic after some youths blocked roads using rocks and boulders, forcing police to intervene and disperse the group.
Police later restored calm in the town.
By David Nduro
