Authorities in Migori County narrowly averted a potential disaster after bomb disposal experts safely removed explosives planted beneath a bridge in Nyatike. The devices were discovered on Tuesday following reports from residents who noticed suspicious wiring under the bridge connecting Suna West and Nyatike sub-counties.
Unable to handle the threat, the initial responding officers immediately called in specialists, who confirmed and safely removed the explosives before they could detonate. An investigation team from the Anti-Terrorism Police Unit (ATPU) has also been deployed to examine the incident.
Nyatike Sub-county Police Commander Londo Juma said the report came from a member of the public who observed a red wire emerging from the ground.
“The caller told us that a red wire was coming out of the ground. He was concerned about what it might be,” Juma said.
Police officers at the scene verified the presence of the suspicious wiring. Since the area is known for gold mining, where some miners occasionally use explosives, authorities decided to bring in experts to determine whether the device was dangerous.
“We had to call bomb disposal experts to remove the wire and check its connections. Upon examination, they confirmed that explosives had indeed been planted under the bridge,” Juma said.
The explosives were safely removed after authorities temporarily blocked access to the bridge, and no injuries were reported. Mr Juma added that investigations are ongoing to identify those responsible and urged residents to provide any information that could assist in the probe.
“The explosives were placed with malicious intent. They were meant to harm people. We are urging members of the public to cooperate so that we can take the necessary action,” he said.
The incident comes ahead of President William Ruto’s visit to Migori County on Wednesday for the Piny Luo Festivals.
The celebrations are set to take place at multiple venues, including Rongo University grounds, where the President will witness boat racing, wrestling, and other traditional Luo cultural practices, including Tero Buru, at Saye Beach. He is also expected to visit the ThimLich Ohinga historical site in Kadem before proceeding to Rongo University.
Following the discovery of the explosives, residents and traders who rely on the bridge temporarily halted their activities, fearing for their safety. Locals also described the bridge as a crime hotspot, citing frequent robberies and poor lighting that makes the area prone to accidents.
“It is also an accident hotspot. Several drivers have lost control of their vehicles as they approach the bridge,” said Mr George Ogoi, a resident.
