This archive report was first published on 15 May 2021.
On May 7, 2021, police in Kisumu launched an investigation into the theft of mosquito nets from government stores. The nets were meant for distribution to 1.2 million people as part of a county initiative to combat malaria.
Two weeks later, on May 14, 2021, police officers from Obunga Police Station raided a house at USAID Estate and arrested a 63-year-old woman in connection with the theft. The woman was found with 19 bales of nets suspected to be part of those stolen from Rabuor and Nyang'ande hospitals.
The county had launched the distribution of treated mosquito nets to residents two weeks ago, with at least 790,000 nets meant for 1.2 million people. However, the exercise was halted in parts of Nyando after it was discovered that 340 bales, each containing 50 nets, had disappeared from the two hospitals.
County Malaria Coordinator Lilyana Dayo noted that the theft was discovered on the day the distribution was to begin. At least four officials from the two hospitals were arrested in connection with the theft.
Police said the woman told them she was selling the nets on behalf of an individual she declined to name. However, she has been uncooperative and has declined to divulge information regarding the nets.
Efforts by the suspect's kin to have her released on police bond failed. The suspect will remain in custody until May 17, 2021 when she will be arraigned.
