Residents of Dede in Awendo, Migori County have expressed growing concern over the rising cases of insecurity in the area.
Speaking at Dede trading centre, locals urged security officers to intensify efforts to curb a wave of break-ins targeting business premises.
Led by Fred Onyango, the traders reported several incidents of burglary, the latest occurring just two days ago. Onyango, who is among the victims, said that property worth millions of shillings has been lost to thieves in recent months.
He noted that several shops, including his own, have been broken into, calling on authorities to step up night patrols and provide a patrol vehicle for officers stationed at the Dede police post.
The residents also appealed to the National Police Service to deploy more officers to Dede and other police posts within Awendo to enhance security.
Another resident, Fredrick Mule, urged the county government and Kenya Power to repair non-functional street lights at Dede market, which have remained out of service for the past four months.
A spot check revealed severe staff shortages at local police stations, with Ranen Police Post in Awendo Sub-County reportedly operating with only four officers handling all duties, including escorting suspects to court.
