Police in Migori County have launched a high-level investigation after an explosive device was discovered beneath a major bridge barely a day before President William Ruto’s anticipated tour of the region, triggering security concerns and panic among residents.

The suspected bomb was found on Tuesday midday, December 16, under the River Kuja Bridge along the busy Migori–Sori Road, a key transport corridor linking several economic zones within Nyatike Sub-county.

The discovery prompted a swift response from security agencies, who immediately secured the area and restricted public access.

The incident comes at a sensitive time, as President Ruto is expected to travel through the area during his visit to Migori County for official engagements.

As of the time of publishing, the National Police Service had not issued an official report detailing the findings or progress of the investigations.

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Discovery and Police Response

According to Nyatike Sub-county Police Commander Juma Londo, the device was first noticed by a concerned passerby who spotted suspicious wiring underneath the bridge and alerted authorities.

Officers were dispatched to the scene, where specialists confirmed the object was an explosive.

“We received reports from a good Samaritan who brought it to our attention, and I can confirm it was an explosive. We coordinated with our team, and the situation is now under control as the explosion was disarmed successfully,” Londo said.

Security personnel successfully neutralised the device without incident, and no injuries were reported.

However, police sealed off the bridge and its surroundings to allow forensic teams to conduct detailed examinations.

“There was no casualty reported, and we are on with investigations. For now, the scene is still under investigation and out of bounds for public use,” the police commander added.

Ruto’s Migori Visit Looms

The discovery has raised alarm due to its proximity to the president’s expected travel plan.

Reports indicate that President Ruto is scheduled to attend the ongoing Piny Luo cultural festival at Rongo University on Wednesday, December 17.

He is also expected to tour Nyatike, including visits to Thimlich Ohinga, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and Senye Beach.

The Migori–Sori Road is among the routes earmarked for use during the presidential tour, intensifying the urgency of the ongoing investigations.

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Residents Voice Fear and Anger

Local residents have expressed fear and frustration, saying the incident reflects growing insecurity in the area.

The residents also raised concerns of attacks on road users that have become increasingly common, particularly at night.

“We have witnessed a series of attacks on this bridge, and with an explosive planted here in broad daylight, it shows that the security personnel need to up their game because clearly our lives are endangered,” said resident Bornface Oketch.

Others pointed out that the bridge is strategically important as it serves communities working in nearby gold mining areas. Clement Oketch, another resident, described the fear gripping families.

“We are in panic mode. Today, I didn’t even go to the gold mines where I work because my family members feared something might happen to them in my absence. My children are literally scared, and as the head of the house, I have to abandon my job and assure them of safety,” he said.

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A Section of the Nyatike- Sori Road Bridge Where an Explosive was Found Implanted. PHOTO/ Source