Njoro residents protest against rising crime

Residents of Bagaria Village hold demonstrations along the Bagaria-Naishi road on May 9, 2019. [Kennedy Gachuhi]

Residents of Bagaria village in Njoro held peaceful demonstrations to protest against rising insecurity.

The residents accused police of laxity, saying their homes and businesses are being broken into.

Rosemary Wangui said they are living in fear of attacks following the release of suspects by police shortly after arrests.

“More than 40 homes have been broken into in three months. Some residents have managed to corner suspects but once the police move them to the station they are released,” she said.

Wangui added that the attacks are rampant during weekends when people have left their homes.

Last month, her home was broken into and the thieves made away with cash and cameras that she uses to earn a living.

“Two suspects were arrested in connection with the theft. However, I was shocked to see them moving around freely days later.”

Esther Okari narrated how an attempt by a gang to rob her was foiled after her daughter spotted them within the compound.

“My daughter went out of the house and smelled tobacco. She called my husband and I. Six people were smoking in our bathroom and we didn’t know their intentions.”

Benson Ngunjiri, another resident, blamed the rising insecurity on unemployment, illicit brew and drug abuse among the youth who want to make money.

He said despite revealing names of suspects to the authorities no action is taken.

“We no longer feel safe and we call on the police to intensify patrols. Jobless youths have been engaging in drug and alcohol abuse which needs money to sustain,” Ngunjiri added.

Njoro Sub County Police Commander Mohammed Huke said investigations are underway.