Two people who police linked to the notorious “Jobless” criminal group were shot dead during anti-fuel price protests Busia Town, police have said.
The shooting happened on Tuesday May 19 hours before a strike that triggered the protests was called off by the public transport associations.
The deceased were identified as Fred Odhiambo alias “Papaa”, 43, who sustained a gunshot wound to the right side of the chest with the bullet exiting through the back, and Allan Odhiambo Oluoch alias “Johnte”, 36, who suffered a gunshot wound to the throat. Both succumbed while undergoing treatment at the facility.
A third victim identified only as Nick sustained a gunshot wound above the collar bone before he was allegedly removed from the hospital by a riotous mob and taken to an unknown destination.
Odhiambo, a staff member attached to ODM acting Secretary General and Busia Woman Representative Catherine Omanyo, was reportedly caught in violent confrontations between residents and police following demonstrations over soaring fuel prices.
Residents claim tensions escalated after angry youths stormed Busia Police Station over an earlier shooting incident, prompting officers to open fire to disperse crowds.
According to witnesses, Odhiambo had rushed to the station after receiving reports that suspected goons planned to vandalise his barbershop. However, moments after arriving, he was allegedly shot while trying to flee the scene.
Witnesses further claimed he was struck a second time from behind, with the bullet hitting his chest near the heart before he collapsed.
Omanyo confirmed the death, demanding justice and accountability from authorities, while Okiya Omtatah called for immediate investigations by IPOA, DCI, and the Interior Ministry into the fatal shooting.
Police described the three as members of the “Jobless” gang, which officers say has been terrorising Busia Town and surrounding areas.
The two deceased were said to be key leaders of the group.
The bodies were moved to Francis Funeral Home for preservation pending further investigations.
Police officers visited both the hospital and funeral home and confirmed the incident.
Police said investigations are ongoing and the situation remains under control.
The killing increased to more than eight, the number of those killed in the protests on Monday and Tuesday.
Property of unknown value was destroyed in the chaos.
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