BY ANGELA R. KIURA
A week-long blackout along the busy Gatoori-Riamaciri road has triggered a wave of insecurity, prompting urgent calls from residents, traders, and commuters for government intervention.
The streetlights along the stretch went off seven days ago, plunging the area into darkness and creating an opportunity for increased criminal activity. Locals report a sharp rise in theft and fear for their safety during early morning and evening hours.
“Since the lights went off, I have lost tomatoes worth six hundred shillings through theft. Thieves take advantage of the darkness to snatch goods without being noticed. We have to close early because we can’t risk losing more,” said James Mugambi, a shopkeeper.
Students attending Gatoori Secondary and Primary schools are among those affected, with early morning commutes now fraught with fear.
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“It is very scary for us to leave home early in the morning. We cannot risk our safety,” said Chris Chomba, a student at Gatoori School.
Boda boda operators have also scaled back night operations due to safety concerns.
“We are working in fear. You never know who is waiting for you in the dark,” said Timothy Mugendi, a local rider.
Residents are now demanding that the county government urgently repair the faulty lights, warning that continued inaction could result in further losses and endanger lives.
Efforts to reach county officials for comment were unsuccessful by the time of publication.
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