Governor Nyong’o Calls for Arrests After Goon Attacks on Businesses
Kisumu Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o has called for swift arrests and prosecutions following a series of violent attacks targeting businesses in the lakeside county, warning that rising insecurity could undermine investor confidence and economic growth.
The governor made the remarks after convening a high-level security meeting under the Kisumu Joint Leadership and Security Consultative Forum, bringing together county executives, members of parliament, county assembly representatives, and security officials. The meeting was prompted by recent incidents, including the high-profile attack on Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi at a popular outlet within the West End Mall on April 8.
Nyong’o also referenced an earlier incident on March 11 involving the Fairways Hospitality Hotel, a facility associated with former Principal Secretary Irungu Nyakera, where a group of assailants reportedly stormed the premises, assaulted staff, and disrupted operations.
Condemning the attacks, the governor described them as a direct threat to livelihoods and economic stability in the region. “We strongly condemn the recent attacks on private property and investment, particularly the incidents at Fairways Hotel and Java House West End Mall. These are criminal acts that undermine livelihoods and economic stability,” Nyong’o said.
He urged the Ministry of Interior and National Administration to move with urgency in identifying and apprehending those responsible, stressing that failure to act decisively could embolden further lawlessness.
“Security apparatus should act with speed and impartiality to arrest and prosecute those behind the recent attacks. We will not allow a few individuals to tarnish the image of Kisumu County,” he added.
The governor’s call comes amid ongoing investigations by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations, which has already led to the arrest of three suspects linked to the assault on Senator Osotsi. Authorities say the probe is continuing as they seek to establish whether the attacks were isolated incidents or part of a broader coordinated pattern.
Details emerging from the March attack on Fairways Hospitality Hotel suggest the incident may have been linked to a longstanding dispute between the establishment and the Lake Basin Development Authority over alleged rent arrears. Reports indicate that more than 100 individuals were involved in the raid, raising
concerns over organised criminal activity and the use of large groups to intimidate businesses.
Nyong’o warned that such incidents, if left unchecked, could erode Kisumu’s reputation as a key commercial hub in western Kenya. He emphasised the county’s strategic importance as a gateway to the Lake Region Economic Bloc, noting that stability is critical to sustaining both local and regional economic progress.
“Kisumu is a vital investment destination and a gateway to the Lake Region. Any threat to security here has far-reaching implications for economic growth and investor confidence,” he stated.
Leaders present at the meeting echoed his sentiments, underscoring the need for a unified approach between national and county governments in tackling insecurity. They also highlighted the importance of protecting businesses, which they described as the backbone of employment and economic activity in the region.
Nyong’o reiterated his administration’s commitment to working closely with security agencies to safeguard both residents and investors. He maintained that restoring order remains a top priority for the county leadership
As investigations continue, attention now turns to how quickly authorities can bring perpetrators to justice and reassure the business community that Kisumu remains a safe and viable destination for investment.
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Governor Nyong’o Calls for Arrests After Goon Attacks on Businesses
