3 arrested in connection with death of night guard in Kisii

In a chilling turn of events, three individuals have been arrested in connection with the fatal beating of a 22‑year-old security guard at Engako Bar in Nyachenge trading centre, Kisii County. According to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), the guard was ambushed on the night of November 26, 2024, assaulted with crude weapons, and left to bleed out. As he lay dying, the assailants allegedly broke into the bar and made off with about KSh 26,000 worth of alcohol. k24.digital
Investigators revealed that one of the suspects, later identified as Festus Odhiambo (aka Arum ), was arrested in Migori County, where blood-stained clothing believed to be linked to the crime was recovered. His two alleged accomplices — Thomas Momanyi Omenta and Grace Kerubo Oseko — were apprehended in Kisii township. A sub‑county investigations head conducted an identification parade, and regular patrons of the bar positively identified the trio as having consumed drinks there earlier that evening. The suspects are currently held at Nyamarambe Police Station while the DCI continues its probe.
The arrest has prompted a wave of public reaction in Kisii. Local leaders praised the DCI for the swift response, calling it a strong message against the rising violence in bar environments and the vulnerability of night guards. Families of workers in the security industry have expressed concern over the risk their loved ones face, urging authorities to step up protection and crime-prevention efforts. Meanwhile, some residents are calling for tougher regulation of nightlife spots, mindful of similar fatal attacks in the past.
Authorities have signaled their commitment to building a solid case, citing physical evidence and witness testimonies as key to securing convictions. Looking ahead, there are calls for preventive strategies, such as increased patrolling around bars and community-policing initiatives, to shield vulnerable workers and prevent such tragedies from repeating.