Plans are underway to revive a neglected police post in Kimangu, Kithimani, Yatta Sub County, Machakos, following a surge in crime in the area.
Yatta Deputy County Commissioner James Chacha has already requested more security officers through writing to man the post.
Speaking during a security meeting at Kimangu market, Chacha challenged the officers to increase patrols within Kimangu in order to apprehend criminals that have been terrorising the residents.
“In the meantime we have spoken to the OCPD, and we have decided from today there will be patrols until we establish the police post,” he stated.
He reassured residents of their commitment to eradicate criminal activities and urged them to collaborate with the police by volunteering information on suspicious people in their midst.
Many residents have reported being attacked by masked thugs wielding crude weapons, and as a result, traders are closing their businesses early to evade the attackers.
A resident of Senza Samburu, a prominent trader, lamented his business has dwindled due to several break-ins by a five-man gang.
He noted that they are afraid to move around in the evening for fear of being mugged by young criminals who dress up as policemen.
On the other hand, Steven Lindi claimed they have noticed many new faces in the village who pretend to be looking for accommodation but were surveying the area to ease their escape once they raid the village at night.
He lamented that his family members are yet to recover from a horrifying incident whereby thugs invaded his home. He called on the government to curb rising criminal activities in the area.
By Anne Kangero
