Journalist attacked by armed thugs in kitengela

A journalist was attacked and injured by thugs armed with crude weapons in Kitengela.

Residents of Kitengela have raised concerns over increased insecurity in the town.

Those who spoke to The Standard said the situation had worsened over the last three months.

A few days ago, a local journalist was left nursing serious head injuries after criminals armed with crude weapons broke into his Milimani house at night.

Joseph Ngunjiri, formerly of Standard Group, said the three attackers gained access to his compound around midnight by cutting metal grills on his gate.

"Two ransacked the house while the other one kept vigil. They demanded Sh500,000. I did not have it. They took my television set, mobile phones, a laptop and cameras," said Mr Ngunjiri.

"We are living in fear as these criminals roam the streets undeterred. Residents continue to lose their valuables and it is unfortunate that no arrests have been made," he added.

"We cannot be talking about attacks, killings, robberies and loss of property every day. Security personnel must come down hard on these criminals."

The criminals were armed with crude weapons. [Courtesy]

George Kinyanjui, another resident, said it was becoming risky to live in Kitengela and called on police to enhance patrols.

"Insecurity is a real concern for us. We are asking the police to do their work as the situation is becoming hopeless," he said on Wednesday.

Rebecca Santetua called on the Government to establish more police stations in the area to deter criminals.

"We are urging the Ministry of Interior not to allow thugs to take over the town. We want them to intervene even if it means posting additional officers here." Area OCPD Kinyua Mugambi said police were investigating several cases.