Police raise the alarm over defilement cases in Bungoma

Bungoma County Police Commander Francis Kooli has raised the alarm over rising defilement cases in the region.

Kooli attributed the cases to lack of proper care and protection from parents. 

Addressing a press briefing on the state of security in the county, the police boss revealed that a total of 262 defilement cases were reported in 2024, a sharp increase from 248 cases recorded in 2023. 

“We are facing a serious challenge as a county. These cases are rising at an alarming rate. Why are we defiling our children?” He posed.

Kooli urged parents to ensure their children receive adequate care and protection. 

“Parents are failing to provide security for their children. There are dangerous individuals out there preying on our young ones,” he said. 

 “Responsible parents not only provide food; they also educate and protect their children,” he added.

On gender-based violence, Kooli noted that 12 rape cases were reported in 2024, 847 assault cases and two incidents of incest.

The police boss raised concern over the increasing murder cases, which have posed a significant threat to the county's security.

He regretted that residents have resorted to violence and murder to settle disputes instead of pursuing legal channels to seek justice.

Kooli noted that 62 murder cases were recorded in 2023, with the number rising to 67 in 2024.

"As a society, we are no longer valuing the sanctity of life. We are too quick to take one another’s life, and this reflects the moral decay within our community," he said.

The police commander also provided a breakdown of murder cases by sub-county, with Webuye East leading with 15 cases, Kimilili (12), Bungoma South (11), while Cheptais, Bungoma North, Tongaren, Mt. Elgon, and Bumula recorded lower numbers. 

He urged residents to use the proper channels, such as chiefs, village elders, and the police, to resolve disputes peacefully. 

“We encourage everyone to seek assistance from the appropriate authorities—chiefs, village elders, and the police—when disagreements arise. This will help resolve conflicts without anyone getting hurt,” Kooli said.

He also warned the public not to fall prey to fraudulent police recruitment schemes.

"Many people are falling victim due to their lack of vigilance in verifying the credibility of information shared. Some have even been scammed into purchasing non-existent land,” Kooli said.