Shocking wave of theft targets bank customers withdrawing large sums in Mumias town
Police in Kakamega County have launched an investigation into a criminal group involving some boda boda riders, bank tellers, and security guards in Mumias town. This group is suspected of working together to rob people who withdraw large amounts of money from banks.
According to the police, several customers have been attacked, robbed, and even killed shortly after withdrawing cash. Investigations show that employees from two major banks in Mumias might be involved in alerting the criminals about which customers have taken out large sums of money.
The criminals’ method is simple but deadly. After a customer withdraws money, a boda boda rider – tipped off by a bank employee – offers to give them a lift. But instead of taking them safely to their destination, the rider hands the victim over to waiting robbers.
The most recent case involved a well-known teacher, Madam Roselida Akinyi, who was killed after withdrawing Ksh 285,000 from one of the banks under investigation. She was on her way to her home in Budonga village, Navakholo Constituency, when she was attacked.
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) in Kakamega, led by Mr. Njeru Nthiga, has already identified two bank tellers, one boda boda rider, and a security guard as suspects in Madam Akinyi’s murder. CCTV footage shows the group allegedly planning the robbery inside the bank.
Residents are living in fear, saying Mumias town has become a hotspot for armed criminals. Many traders, especially MPESA agents, have stopped handling cash and now prefer to do business via mobile transactions only.
“It’s risky to walk around with cash in Mumias. Gangs are everywhere and no one feels safe,” said Mr. Stanslaus Makokha, a concerned resident.
Angry residents held protests and even stormed the Mumias West Sub-County offices to demand answers. Many people now travel to Kakamega or Bungoma towns to do their banking in peace.
Mr. Nthiga said the criminals mostly target people withdrawing over Ksh 100,000.
“We are working around the clock. I promise we will arrest all those involved very soon and take them to court,” he assured.
Also Read
