Kangema:Murang’a Residents of Kangema Constituency in Murang’a County have been urged to adopt community policing to address the increasing cases of insecurity, including livestock and coffee theft. The initiative is being encouraged as a collaborative effort between the public and security agencies.
According to Kenya News Agency, the Kangema Sub County Deputy County Commissioner (DCC) Thomas Nyoro emphasized the importance of enhanced cooperation between the community and law enforcement to identify and tackle criminal activities effectively. Nyoro also highlighted the need for residents to actively participate in security meetings, noting the poor attendance at these gatherings, which serve as crucial platforms for addressing security challenges.
Nyoro further disclosed that meetings with coffee farmers revealed that some farmers are involved in perpetuating coffee theft by selling to brokers. He stressed the importance of adhering to proper procedures to prevent such thefts and announced plans for crackdowns on unlicensed coffee brokers.
Sub County Police Commander Lydiah Wanjiru advised residents to secure their homes and report any suspicious activities to village elders. Wanjiru pointed out that the conspiracy behind livestock theft often starts within the community itself, underscoring the necessity of community policing.
Kangema Member of Parliament Peter Kihungi attributed the rise in coffee theft to improved coffee earnings, making the crop a lucrative target for thieves. He called on security officers to enhance surveillance and protect farmers. Kihungi also urged the community to share vital information with authorities to help curb the insecurity, stressing that those committing crimes often live among the community.
The MP further called for firm action against individuals involved in coffee theft, as this issue prevents farmers from fully benefiting from improved earnings.
