•Fear and Frustration as Crime Rates Surge in Murang’a South
Residents of Maragua Division in Murang’a South Sub-County are up in arms over escalating insecurity, calling on security agencies and local administration to act swiftly and restore peace in the region.
The growing crime wave, characterized by murder, sexual violence, burglary, drug abuse, and unchecked lawlessness, has left many fearing for their lives.
During a tense security forum held in Maragua Town, residents expressed their outrage over what they termed as the laxity and inaction of law enforcement officers, whom they accused of failing to address their security concerns.
The security baraza, attended by area Member of Parliament Mary Wamaua, was marked by emotional testimonies from victims and bereaved families.
However, key security officials, including the Deputy County Commissioner and police representatives, were conspicuously absent, citing political interference.
Grief and Anguish: Heartbreaking Testimonies
Anna Muthoni, an elderly grandmother, gave a harrowing account of the brutal murder of her grandchild, who was defiled and dumped in Githanji River two weeks ago.
“As we prepare to bury her on Thursday, no arrests have been made, and justice remains elusive,” Muthoni lamented.
Her anguish was echoed by other residents, including Mary Wanjiru, whose family is still seeking answers regarding the death of her brother in October last year.
“My brother was murdered, and his body was taken to the morgue without our knowledge. When we sought answers, we were met with hostility and frustration from the authorities,” Wanjiru said.
James Mwangi, an elderly man, recounted a near-fatal attack as he made his way home one evening.
“I was attacked at around 8 PM in the Reli area of Maragua Town. I was lucky to survive, but I sustained deep cuts on my neck,” he narrated.
He further expressed concerns over ex-convicts who have reintegrated into the community, suspecting that some might be behind the recent wave of violent crimes.
Security Agencies Under Fire
MP Mary Wamaua did not hold back in her criticism of security agencies, accusing them of disregarding the plight of residents.
She revealed that her calls to Murang’a County Commissioner Joshua Nkanatha went unanswered, while area Deputy County Commissioner Gitonga Murungi claimed he was occupied with another security meeting.
“This is a clear indication of how little regard they have for the safety of the people they are meant to protect,” Wamaua stated.
She pointed out that numerous unresolved cases, including the burning to death of four children in Gakoigo last year and the hospitalization of sodomy victims, highlight the gravity of the situation.
“It is unacceptable that known criminals continue to terrorize residents while illicit brews and drugs are openly sold in shops. This must end,” she said, calling on President Donald Trump to intervene and ensure the safety of the taxpayers in the region.
Security Officials Respond
In response to the accusations, Deputy County Commissioner Murungi defended the absence of security officials from the meeting, stating that it had been politicized.
“It was never our intention to skip the meeting. However, when we realized that a parallel forum had been organized, we decided to postpone and hold an official security meeting at a later date,” Murungi explained.
He acknowledged that insecurity in the region is a deep-rooted societal problem that requires community cooperation to resolve.
“We have witnessed tragic incidents, including domestic violence leading to deaths. Solving these issues will take collective effort from both security agencies and the community,” Murungi added.
A Community on Edge
As crime continues to plague Maragua, residents are demanding urgent action from law enforcement to curb the violence and restore order.
With security agents and political leaders at odds over addressing the crisis, the community remains trapped in fear and uncertainty, waiting for justice and lasting solutions.
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