Night Terror in Butonge: Residents Decry Marijuana Abuse and Violent Attacks, Demand Sirisia Action
Residents of Butonge village in Sirisia Constituency are living in fear following a spate of night-time disturbances allegedly involving groups of young men suspected to be abusing marijuana and assaulting locals.
According to multiple residents, the incidents typically occur late at night, when youths roam the area intimidating passersby, issuing threats, and in some cases physically attacking residents. Locals say the situation has escalated to a point where elderly people and women are afraid to leave their homes after dark.
At the centre of community concern is a young man identified by residents as Willy, said to be the son of Wanyonyi Willis. Community members allege that Willy is frequently seen in the company of other youths including his close partner known locally as Osika during the late-night disturbances. Residents further claim that his mother, Violet, is a liquor trader in the area.
While no formal charges have been confirmed, residents insist that repeated reports and informal complaints have yielded little action, allowing the alleged behaviour to continue unchecked.
“People are crying. We cannot sleep. If you try to question them, you are beaten,” said one resident, who asked not to be named for fear of retaliation.
“People are crying. We cannot send girls to the shop after 6pm because we fear these boys can rape them.”
Locals say the situation has forced families to restrict movement after dark, with parents keeping children indoors and small businesses closing early. Women and girls are reportedly the most affected, as residents fear harassment and sexual violence during late hours.
Community elders and parents warn that the unchecked drug abuse and violence risk plunging the village into lawlessness, with children and vulnerable residents bearing the brunt of the insecurity.
Residents are now appealing directly to the Sirisia sub-county administration and security agencies to intervene urgently, conduct night patrols, crack down on drug abuse, and restore order.
They are calling for:
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Immediate security operations and patrols in Butonge
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Action against suspected drug dens and illegal liquor outlets
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Community policing support to protect residents
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Engagement with parents and guardians of the youths involved
As pressure mounts, locals say they will continue to speak out until decisive action is taken to reclaim their village from fear and violence.