Bungoma County Health Officer Killed at Home as Leaders Raise Alarm Over Rising Insecurity
Residents of Bungoma are mourning the death of a county public health officer who was reportedly attacked and killed outside his home in what leaders are now describing as part of a growing wave of insecurity in the region.
The victim, identified as Pascal Wakafura, was allegedly attacked by unknown assailants on Monday night, May 11, shortly after arriving at his residence in the Forest View area along the Musikoma–Bumula road.
According to witnesses and neighbours, Wakafura had just driven into his compound when the attackers struck. Residents said they heard a commotion followed by desperate cries for help believed to be from the officer before his body was discovered moments later near the edge of the compound.
Witnesses further claimed that his Toyota sedan was found with its engine still running while the compound gate remained open, fuelling suspicions that the attackers may have ambushed him as he entered his home.
The killing has sparked outrage among local leaders and residents, many of whom say violent incidents have become increasingly common across the county in recent weeks.
Kanduyi Member of Parliament John Makali condemned the incident, describing the officer’s death as cruel, shocking, and deeply disturbing.
“I have received with deep shock and sadness the news of the tragic death of a dedicated Public Health Officer serving the people of Bungoma County. That his life ended in such a cruel and senseless manner is heartbreaking and deeply disturbing,” the MP said in a statement.
Makali further urged security agencies to act swiftly and restore public confidence in safety across the county.
“These senseless killings must come to an end. I call upon the Ministry of Interior and all security agencies to move with speed and bring those responsible to justice. The people of Bungoma deserve safety, peace, and protection,” he added.
Residents have also linked the killing to what they describe as a worrying pattern of violent attacks reported in entertainment joints and public spaces across the county in recent weeks.
Among the incidents cited by locals are disturbances and violent episodes reported at Club Solutions Sang’alo, Wekelekha Simba Wanyika Bar, and Club 039, incidents that residents claim have heightened fear among members of the public.
“One incident after another is being reported, and now we have lost a county officer in such a tragic manner. People no longer feel safe,” one resident said.
The latest killing is now expected to pile pressure on security agencies and the Ministry of Interior to intensify operations in the area amid growing criticism over the deteriorating security situation in parts of Bungoma County.
Police had not yet issued an official statement on the motive behind the attack or whether any arrests had been made by the time of publication.
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