Residents of Molo town in Nakuru County are increasingly concerned about a surge in criminal activity, directly attributing the rise to broken and non-functional streetlights that plunge the town into darkness each night.

They're urging both the county government and law enforcement to take immediate action to restore safety and security.

Locals report a significant increase in crime over recent months, with criminals taking advantage of the poorly lit streets to target unsuspecting individuals. Many believe that the absence of adequate lighting has transformed parts of Molo into dangerous areas after sunset.

James Githinji, a resident who sustained a head injury, recounted a harrowing experience: "Armed men assaulted me, and I only narrowly escaped by shouting for help. The spike in robberies is clearly linked to the darkness that covers our town every evening."

The deteriorating security situation is also impacting local businesses. Isaac Njenga, chairperson of the Molo Jua Kali Association, noted that fear has forced many establishments to close earlier than usual.

“Once night falls, the town becomes deserted. People are shutting their shops early because the streets are simply not safe anymore,” he explained.

Young residents have also reported numerous muggings, leading to the theft of mobile phones, laptops, and other personal items. John Gathirwa described how criminal gangs lurk in dark alleyways, ambushing their victims.

Motorcycle taxi (boda boda) riders have not been spared either. David Mburu, a boda boda operator, shared a terrifying incident where a fake customer lured him into an ambush.

“I picked up a man near a pub, but when we reached a dimly lit spot, four others suddenly emerged from the bushes. They beat me up and stole my motorbike,” he recalled.

Frustrated and fearful, Molo residents are appealing directly to Nakuru Governor Susan Kihika to intervene. They are requesting that a technical team be sent to assess and repair the faulty streetlights, which have been out of commission for several months.

“We’ve been living in fear. Something must be done before more people are harmed,” urged another concerned resident.

In response to the growing outcry, Molo Sub- County Police Commander Timon Odingo encouraged the community to report all criminal incidents promptly.

He also assured residents that the police would continue to monitor the situation and respond as necessary.

Despite these assurances, a palpable sense of unease remains among many Molo residents, who insist that without proper street lighting and increased police patrols, the town will continue to be a haven for criminals after dark.