Residents of Kakamega are still in disbelief after a tense and emotional scene unfolded yesterday morning at the town market, when a group of ten suspected thieves reportedly appeared and publicly confessed to a string of theft cases that have troubled the community for months.
According to villagers, the group had been linked by locals to repeated incidents of stolen cows, household goods, business stock, and even vehicles. Many families say they had reported the losses several times but felt help was taking too long to arrive.
“We cried, we reported, we followed up,” one resident said. “Each time we were told, ‘Investigations are ongoing, you will be informed.’ But the stealing did not stop. People were living in fear.”
Community elders held several meetings in recent weeks trying to find a solution. One of the elders, speaking during the market incident, said they decided to widen their search for help after formal follow-ups seemed slow.
“As elders, we sat down and agreed we must act for our people,” he told the crowd. “We even went to seek guidance from traditional healer Dr Magongo at his Migori office. We were desperate for justice and truth.”
Yesterday’s events stunned traders and shoppers when a lorry drove into the market area carrying assorted items — including tools, electronics, and farm equipment — that residents claimed matched previously stolen property. The ten suspects, surrounded by community members, reportedly asked to speak.
Witnesses say the atmosphere went silent.
“One of them stepped forward shaking and said, ‘We are the ones. We stole from you. Forgive us,’” said a shopkeeper who was present. “People just froze. You could hear women gasping.”
Several suspects were seen crying and pleading with the crowd for mercy. Some victims pushed forward, pointing at items they believed belonged to them. Emotions rose, but elders repeatedly urged residents not to attack anyone.
“Do not take the law into your hands,” one elder warned loudly. “Let truth lead and let the right process follow.”
Locals also claimed that fear had spread within the suspected gang after two of their colleagues died recently under unclear circumstances. This reportedly frightened the remaining members and pushed them to surrender and confess publicly. These claims have not yet been officially confirmed by authorities.
The remaining eight suspects reportedly promised to return property and compensate victims. One was heard saying, “We will pay back everything. We don’t want to live like this anymore.”
Security officers were later notified and began documenting the recovered goods and statements. By evening, crowds were still discussing the event in small groups across the town.
“I have lived here for 40 years,” said an elderly trader. “I have never seen thieves bring back stolen things themselves. Yesterday, our mouths were left open.”
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