Kisumu, a vibrant city by the shores of Lake Victoria, is often known for its culture, nightlife, and scenic beauty—but beneath the surface lies a darker side revealed by some of the region’s most unsettling crimes. This list compiles the 10 most shocking crime stories in Kisumu that captured headlines, stirred public emotions, and sparked national conversations.
1. Defilement of a Two-Year-Old in Nyalenda B
In February 2024, the city was shaken when a middle-aged man, Donard Shimiyu Ondieka, was sentenced to life in prison for defiling a two-year-old girl.
The heinous act happened in Nyalenda B, with a court finding the accused guilty after damning medical reports and witness testimony. The case ignited widespread outrage and calls for tougher laws.
2. Murder of Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Hospital Nurse
In 2022, the brutal killing of a nurse working at JOOTRH sent shockwaves across the county. The nurse was found dead in her home under suspicious circumstances.
Investigations revealed a possible case of domestic violence, sparking nationwide discussions about gender-based violence in the health sector.
3. Sh200 Million Bank Heist Attempt Foiled in the CBD
A sophisticated attempt to rob a commercial bank in Kisumu’s central business district was thwarted in 2023. The gang, armed with tools and insider access, nearly pulled off the operation before alarm systems triggered a police response.
Several suspects were arrested in what authorities termed a "high-tech robbery attempt."
4. Grisly Double Murder in Mamboleo
In 2021, residents of Mamboleo were horrified by the discovery of a couple murdered inside their home.
The crime scene showed signs of a struggle, and investigations revealed the couple was targeted over a land dispute. The case remains one of Kisumu’s most haunting unsolved crimes.
5. Pastor Caught Running Child Trafficking Ring
A 2022 undercover investigation exposed a local church leader allegedly involved in child trafficking. Authorities rescued several children believed to be victims of a trafficking network operating under the guise of an orphanage.
The story drew national media attention and sparked a crackdown on unregistered children’s homes.
6. University Student’s Mysterious Death in Hostel
In early 2023, a third-year student at Maseno University was found dead under unclear circumstances in her hostel.
Though initially ruled a suicide, inconsistencies in the autopsy report raised questions about foul play. The case ignited a debate about mental health, campus safety, and justice for students.
7. Boda Boda Gang Terrorizes Milimani Residents
A notorious gang using boda bodas (motorbikes) was responsible for a string of robberies in the upscale Milimani estate.
Victims were trailed and attacked at their gates, often in broad daylight. A police crackdown later led to arrests, but the wave of fear lasted for months.
8. Mob Justice Killing of Suspected Thief in Kondele
A disturbing case of mob justice occurred in Kondele when a man accused of stealing a mobile phone was lynched by an angry crowd.
The incident sparked conversations about the rising trend of vigilante justice and the urgent need for public education on lawful conflict resolution.
9. Serial House Break-Ins in Kisian
Over a period of four months in 2023, residents of Kisian reported a surge in night-time burglaries.
A gang was eventually busted with stolen electronics, cash, and jewelry. Their methodical break-ins, use of silencers, and knowledge of CCTV blind spots shocked even the police.
10. Ritualistic Killing of Young Boy in Obunga
Perhaps one of the most chilling crimes was the alleged ritual killing of a 6-year-old boy in Obunga. The boy had gone missing, only for his body to be discovered days later with missing body parts.
Superstition, black magic, and suspicion of local cults made headlines, prompting community protests and government intervention.