By JOEL OKWAYO
Sugarcane worth Sh8.6 million belonging to Mumias Sugar Company was set on fire by arsonists.
The Saturday fire, which was put off by the company fire fighters, affected the nucleus Estate of Shibale and parts of Mayoni.
The fire left over 50 hectares of cane burnt and police have arrested two suspects in connection to the incident.
"We have launched investigation and police are going on with patrols in the estates to avoid incidents of cane fires in the sugar belt," said Deputy Western PPO Njoroge Mbugwa. He said the two suspects in custody over the incident would be arraigned in court today.
Investigation by The Standard has established that cases of cane fires had increased following the dispute between farmers and the company over cane prices.
Farmers are demanding that the company pays them Sh2,500 a ton up from Sh2,425.
The company acting Estate Manager Andrew Nyakundi told The Standard the company had put in place measures to stop further arson attacks in the estates.
"We have intensified our patrols in the nucleus estate to ensure that there are no more cane fires," said Mr Nyakundi.
He, however, declined to give more details and instead referred us to the Corporate Affairs Manager Pamela Lutta. But Lutta could not be reached.
Sugar cane farmers last Tuesday demonstrated against the company in Mumias town over poor prices, among other issues.
arrest warrant
Police injured local MP Ben Washiali who joined the farmers in the protests. Police also obtained arrest warrant against Mr Washiali on Wednesday following the demonstrations.
The MP is still admitted to the Karen Hospital in Nairobi following the injuries he sustained in the clash between police and the farmers.
Legislators Dr Bonny Khalwale (Ikolomani), Alfred Odhiambo (Butula) and an Assistant Minister Sylvester Wakoli also participated in the protests. Police lobbed tear gas canisters, forcing the farmers and leaders to scamper for safety.
Khalwale claimed he had gathered evidence that the company was colluding with the Provincial Administration to frustrate farmers. "I will table the documents in Parliament once the House reconvenes," he said.
