This archive report was first published on 14 November 2019.
Siaya County's Bondo market has been a hotbed of criminal activity, with numerous cases of robbery reported in recent years.
Located in Ugenya Constituency, the market has seen a significant increase in thefts, with traders and residents living in fear of the next attack.
According to residents, the thieves target shops and homes, stealing electronic goods and other valuables.
One fuel station at the market has been raided eight times since last year, with the thieves making off with fuel worth thousands of shillings.
Attendant Eunice Akoth recounted the latest robbery, which occurred last Friday, saying the thieves filled five jerricans with fuel without paying.
Residents have accused police officers of taking too long to respond to calls for help, leading to a breakdown in trust between the community and law enforcement.
Angry residents recently raided the home of a suspected robber, burning down eight houses at the homestead.
Businessman Dennis Radak, whose home was broken into in October, said the thieves lured his caretaker to a chang'aa den while they stole electronics from his house.
Radak reported the theft to the Sihay police post and Ukwala Police Station, but said the police have not followed up on the case.
Motorcycle rider Patrick Otieno, who operates within Bondo market stage, blamed the police for laxity, saying they have been provided with CCTV footage as evidence but have not taken action.
Residents are now calling on the county government to light up the market and provide security measures to enhance their safety.
Ugenya OCPD Willy Simba downplayed the increase in crime, saying most cases reported to his office were minor and that there were no reported robbery cases since the year began.
