Residents of Sion village in Molo Constituency have raised alarm over rising cases of livestock theft and burglary, appealing to security agencies to act swiftly and bring perpetrators to justice.
The latest incident involved the theft of a family cow belonging to Bernard Rotich. Thieves broke into his homestead at night, stole the animal, and slaughtered it just metres away from a nearby police station. The brazen act has heightened fears in the village and prompted street protests yesterday.
Residents accuse police of laxity, claiming that repeated break-ins into shops and homes have gone unpunished. Many now lock themselves indoors by 8pm and share shelter with remaining livestock for protection.
“It started as petty theft of household items like sufurias, but it has escalated to livestock theft, which is now a major concern,” one resident told journalists. Another added that the slaughter near the police post suggests possible collusion with law enforcers.
Escalating Crime Disrupts Daily Life
Rotich recounted waking up for milking only to find his only cow missing. Villagers helped search and discovered remains close to his home. “We can no longer leave our livestock unguarded. We are forced to shelter with the remaining cows and chickens,” he said.
Residents claim the problem has worsened because the area chief allegedly interferes with justice through informal kangaroo courts. They demanded intensified patrols and operations to flush out thieves from their hideouts.
Molo, located in Nakuru County’s Rift Valley region, has seen similar security concerns in recent months. Livestock theft affects smallholder farmers who rely on animals for milk, draught power, and income. A single cow represents significant household wealth in these farming communities.
Local Leaders Respond
Area chief Evan Mageto promised to restore order. He assured residents that security teams will intensify patrols and ensure those responsible are arrested and prosecuted.
The protests reflect growing frustration in parts of the Rift Valley where livestock remains central to livelihoods. Farmers in Molo grow maize, wheat, and potatoes while keeping small herds of cattle, sheep, and goats. Theft disrupts both food security and economic stability for affected families.
National data from previous years shows stock theft as a persistent challenge across several counties, often linked to organised groups that slaughter animals for quick sale in local markets. In farming areas like Molo, such crimes differ from traditional pastoralist rustling but still cause serious losses.
Calls for Lasting Solutions
Residents want visible police presence beyond political visits and faster response to reports. They also called for better coordination between local administration, police, and community members to prevent further escalation.
Security experts note that effective community policing, improved lighting, and timely investigations can help deter such crimes. Regular night patrols and intelligence gathering have proven useful in similar hotspots.
As protests continue to highlight the issue, local leaders and security officials face pressure to deliver quick results. Residents hope that visible action will restore confidence and allow families to sleep without fear.
The incident in Sion village adds to broader concerns about rural insecurity in Nakuru County. Authorities say they are monitoring the situation closely and will work with residents to address underlying causes.
