Chemelil Sugar Academy in Muhoroni, Kisumu County, is gradually returning to normal operations after a violent attack by a group of suspected criminals left several people injured and disrupted activities at the school on Thursday morning.
Police have confirmed that four people were injured during the incident, while cash and mobile phones were stolen by the attackers.
Authorities have since launched investigations and a manhunt to track down those responsible.
According to police reports, more than 20 suspected goons armed with crude weapons stormed the institution as students were reporting back from the half-term break.
The group is said to have targeted members of staff, assaulting several of them before forcing their way into the offices of the principal and deputy principal.
During the raid, the attackers allegedly stole about Ksh12,000 in cash and more than ten mobile phones. After carrying out the attack, they reportedly escaped through nearby sugarcane plantations towards the Achego area before police officers arrived at the scene.
The incident initially caused panic among parents and school officials. Parents Association Chairperson Fredrick Otieno had earlier indicated that more than six teachers could not immediately be accounted for following the attack.
However, authorities later confirmed that order had been restored and that all students were safe.
Police stated that no learner was harmed during the incident and that every student was accounted for after security checks were conducted.
This brought some relief to parents who had feared for the safety of their children following reports of the invasion.
School Principal Abisai Samora reported the matter to police, prompting a response from security officers. Investigators have since begun collecting information that could help identify and arrest those involved.
The four injured victims suffered soft tissue injuries and cut wounds. They were taken to Nyang’oma Sub-County Hospital, where they are receiving treatment. Police indicated that none of the injuries reported were life-threatening.
Authorities have not yet established the motive behind the attack. However, attention has been drawn to a dispute that has recently involved the school and is linked to the leasing of Chemelil Sugar Factory to a private investor.
The incident comes at a time when security agencies are increasing efforts to deal with organised criminal groups. Earlier this week,
Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja directed security commanders across the country to strengthen enforcement measures against disruptive criminal activities.
Police have appealed for information that could help locate the suspects and bring those responsible for the attack to justice.
