Lugari, Kakamega County – An elderly woman from Itumbu village, Chekalini Ward, Lugari Sub-County, was hospitalized after her house was deliberately set on fire by unknown assailants on Friday night. The attack has left the community in shock, highlighting rising concerns about security in rural areas.
The victim, identified as Pricillar, sustained serious injuries during the incident. Neighbors acted swiftly after hearing her cries and noticing smoke coming from the house, rescuing her and moving her to safety. She was initially taken to the Village of Hope Hospital for emergency care but was later transferred to Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH) in Eldoret due to the severity of her burns and injuries. Medical staff confirmed that she is receiving treatment for both physical injuries and shock caused by the traumatic attack.
Eyewitnesses said the house was engulfed in flames rapidly, destroying property inside, including livestock such as chickens and several bags of maize. Evans Musieba, a neighbor, revealed that this was not the first time Pricillar had been targeted, recounting a previous assault during which she was attacked at night. The repeated targeting has raised serious questions about the safety of vulnerable individuals in the area.
Law enforcement officers from Chekalini and Lumakanda police stations responded to the scene on Saturday morning. Investigators have begun a thorough search for the perpetrators while collecting evidence from the burnt site. Authorities have yet to confirm a motive but are considering multiple angles, including personal disputes and potential criminal intentions.
Local leaders condemned the attack and called for enhanced security measures to protect residents, particularly the elderly and other vulnerable groups. Chekalini Ward representative Nabii Nabwera urged the community to remain vigilant and to report suspicious activities promptly. “We cannot allow our elders to live in fear. Security is a collective responsibility, and everyone must play a part in safeguarding our neighbors,” Nabwera said.
Community members rallied to support the victim, providing temporary shelter and contributing resources to help her recover from the trauma. Social services are also involved, coordinating assistance for Pricillar’s immediate needs, including food, clothing, and medical care.
This incident has sparked wider conversations about rural security and the challenges faced by vulnerable populations in remote areas. Residents stressed the importance of stronger community policing and faster emergency response mechanisms to prevent such attacks from recurring.
Police have assured the public that all leads will be followed to bring the culprits to justice. They encouraged residents to cooperate fully with investigations by providing any relevant information, stressing that successful prosecution depends on community collaboration.
Pricillar’s case is now a poignant reminder of the risks faced by isolated households and the urgent need for coordinated security strategies. While the investigation continues, the focus remains on ensuring the victim’s full recovery and preventing similar incidents in Lugari Sub-County.
The attack also highlights the critical role of neighbors, local leaders, and security agencies in safeguarding lives and property. As authorities intensify efforts to apprehend those responsible, the community is left hoping for justice and a renewed sense of safety in the area.
