BY RITA MUTHONI
Residents and students living in Bagik hostels located in Kangaru village of Manyatta Constituency have called for immediate government intervention following a wave of late-night robberies along the Bagik route that have left the community shaken.
The call comes after Embu University students Basil Mburu and Kipkorir Rono were attacked by a gang within one week, leaving Rono hospitalized with injuries.
Locals blame insufficient street lighting and irregular police patrols for the worsening crime in the predominantly student-populated area.
Victims have reported losing personal items, including laptops, phones, and cash, to robbers who often strike at night.
Motorbike Gang Blamed for Attacks
Residents identified a gang operating on motorbikes, which they allege targets people along Bagik and Kayole areas.
They have also reported break-ins at local shops, resulting in significant financial losses.
“The robbers are getting bolder by the day. Students often come back without their belongings and, in some cases, with injuries,” said Johnson Mate, a security guard.
Mercy Njeri, a resident observed that proper lighting in the area would discourage these criminals.
Broken Promises
Martin Fundi, the area manager, criticized local leaders for failing to deliver on promises made during a recent public participation forum in Kangaru.
“We were assured of improved security measures, but nothing has been done,” Fundi said, urging MP Gitonga Mukunji to equip Kangaru Police Station with vehicles to ensure effective patrols.
The residents’ frustrations were compounded by fears that the continued lack of action would encourage criminals and put more lives at risk.
Despite repeated outcry, government officials have yet to issue a statement or outline measures to address the escalating insecurity in the area.
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