Stephen Maloba was serving as Kisa East MCA for the first time in his political career. [File, Standard]
Security has been beefed up at the home of the late Kisa East MCA Stephen Maloba in Khiwsero Constituency, Kakamega, over fears of a retaliatory attack ahead of his burial on Saturday.
Maloba died on April 1 after he was stabbed in the chest during a political rally within his ward.
It is alleged that he was stabbed with a knife as goons attempted to block him from addressing the meeting organised at Munjiti by area MP Christopher Aseka.
On Thursday, County Commissioner John Ondego warned anyone planning to cause mayhem during Maloba's burial will face the full force of the law.
He said they had received intelligence some people were planning to disrupt the funeral as another group plans to attack those believed to have been involved in the leader's death.
"We have received the report and we are working on it right now. We have already summoned a group of youth who have recorded statements over the matter. I want to warn those planning the said retaliatory attacks that we are watching them and will arrest and charge them in a court of law," said Ondego.
He added: "I have heard people saying there is a culture that allows them to torch houses of suspected killers. I want to ask those hiding behind such cultures to remember that arson is punishable under our penal code."
The county commissioner said police would escort the body from Kakamega General Hospital mortuary to the home of the late MCA for burial.
Richard Andayi, the main suspect in the death of the MCA, was arraigned before the High Court Kakamega on April 24. His case will be heard on May 23.
Those expected to attend the burial include area governor Fernandes Barasa, Senator Boni Khalwale, Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi, Cotu Secretary General Francis Atwoli, former Defense Cabinet Secretary Eugene Wamalwa, former area governor Wycliffe Oparanya and Roots Party Leader George Wajackoyah.
Ondego at the same time warned a criminal gang named 'Paka Mang'aa' accused of terrorizing residents and stealing during funerals that police are on their radar.
"I want to warn the so-called Paka Mang'aa gang that steals food in funerals at night that we are after them. I have also assured the residents of Khwisero that we will get rid of the gang once and for all. We have already arrested five members of the 20-man gang, "said Ondego.
blusigi@standardmedia.co.ke
