Efforts to contain rampant pineapple theft from the fruit processing Delmonte Kenya limited have finally bore fruits.
Speaking to KNA Tuesday, Ithanga- Kakuzi Sub County Police Commander (SCPC) Patrick Nyaanga confirmed that pineapple theft cases from the giant firm have significantly reduced owing to the measures his security department established several months ago.
“Initially, we would arrest and arraign before the court 10-12 pineapple thieves daily, “he said, noting that the number has gone down drastically as they now handle only two to three cases per week and sometimes even none.
The police boss noted that in collaboration with the five Sub County Police Commanders surrounding the Delmonte farm, they were keen on focusing on the market for the stolen farm produce.
Nyaanga said together with the security team from the fruit processor they started conducting impromptu raids at Makuyu, Kenol, Makongeni, Thika and Gatitu markets where the stolen pineapples were being sold.
“We also introduced the use of camera drones that help us to identify where the thieves are in real time and abort their mission,” said Nyaanga.
Additionally, at the Kihiu Mwiri area, the SCPC noted that they deployed officers there as the area was the most notorious and acted as the perfect hideout for the pineapple thieves.
“We identified the areas where theft is rampant and erected roadblocks and lock ups to make the roads impassable for perpetrators,” he stated
Nyaanga further noted that having tougher penalties in court for the farm produce thieves has discouraged the perpetrators who would previously use motorbikes to convey the stolen goods.
“If one is arrested and taken to court for using a motorbike to convey the pineapples, he will not only be fined but also the motorbike will be forfeited so as to make it difficult to steal using the same and discourage others with such plans, “the SCPC said
By Florence Kinyua
