Shock as thieves break into Kisumu hospital, rob lactating mothers of valuables

By Peter Ochieng

Lactating mothers at the Lumumba Subcounty hospital in Kisumu are in great shock, after robbers broke into the health facility a dawn, on Thursday, August 08, 2024.

The suspects, according to John Oywa, Kisumu County's Chief Officer, Communication, Public Affairs and Special Programs, broke into the hospital at 3am, after they scaled the facility's perimeter wall.

They then proceeded to the postnatal ward to the shock of new born mothers, before they made away with their valuables of unknown value.

"They stole phones and other personal property from lactating mothers before escaping into the night," said Oywa.

Police and hospital administration, Oywa added, are actively investigating the matter.

"The hospital administrator and security officers who were on duty have recorded statements with the police."

Kisumu County's department of Medical Services has in the meantime put measures in place to avoid a repeat of the incident.

The measures include enforcing perimeter fences, including installation of electric fences in county health facilities and reorganising security officers.

"Officers found to have been negligent on their duties will face disciplinary action," Oywa added.

Police are seeking to establish among other issues, the number of burglars, and the number and worth of valuables taken from the mothers.