Fear and anger gripped Macalder on Wednesday after a couple who operate an Mpesa shop were shot and seriously wounded during a daring cash robbery, triggering protests by residents demanding swift arrests and tighter security.
The attack, which occurred on Monday night, has reignited concerns over a surge in violent robberies targeting small businesses and traders across Migori County and neighboring regions.
According to police and eyewitnesses, the couple had just closed their Mpesa business and were heading home when they were confronted by an armed gang near their residence. The assailants robbed them of an undisclosed amount of cash before fleeing the scene on foot.
The man was shot in the left shoulder, while the woman sustained a gunshot wound to the right shoulder at close range. Both victims were rushed to a local hospital, where they are reported to be in stable condition.
Despite a rapid police response, no arrests have been made so far.
The shooting sparked spontaneous protests in Macalder, with residents decrying what they described as a worrying rise in violent crime. Protesters accused criminal gangs of operating with impunity and warned that continued insecurity is crippling local businesses.
“These attacks are becoming too frequent. We cannot work or invest in peace when criminals roam freely,” said one protester.
Police assured residents that investigations are ongoing and that efforts are underway to track down and arrest the perpetrators.
Security agencies say the Macalder incident is part of a broader crime pattern in the region. Armed gangs are reportedly targeting cash from Mpesa shops, gold dealers, and other traders, with incidents spreading to Migori town and areas near the Kenya–Tanzania border.
In a separate incident in Esikulu, Busia County, a Bodaboda operator was stabbed and critically injured during a robbery on February 3, with the attackers making away with his motorcycle. Police say such motorcycles are often sold in distant locations to evade detection.
Meanwhile, in Gatundu, Kiambu County, police are investigating an attempted murder case after a man was found severely beaten at his workplace. The victim has been in the ICU at Kijabe Hospital since January 23. While colleagues initially claimed it was a workplace accident, preliminary police findings indicate he was assaulted. Investigators are waiting for his recovery to record a statement.
Police have reiterated their commitment to pursuing the criminal gangs behind the attacks and urged the public to share any information that could aid investigations.
As fear spreads and pressure mounts, residents across affected counties are calling for enhanced patrols, faster response times, and decisive action to stem the growing wave of violent robberies.
