Residents Spent Nights Awake As Armed Gang Plagues Thika.

Villagers in the Karibaribi area of Thika, Kiambu County, are grappling with heightened insecurity due to an armed gang that has been wreaking havoc for the past month.

The criminal group reportedly invades homes at night, stealing various items such as food, livestock, and household appliances.

The armed individuals have also targeted local shops, making off with money and other valuables before escaping on motorcycles. Residents suspect that the criminals may be using drugs to subdue unsuspecting victims.

Despite the presence of a police post near the affected area, residents claim that no significant measures have been taken to curb the escalating crime that has spread throughout the village. One resident, Wahito Kariuki, expressed frustration after losing 10 sheep to the thieves, jeopardizing her plans to use the proceeds for her children’s upkeep. She highlighted the lack of concrete actions taken by law enforcement.

Another resident, Wanjaria Njararuhi, lamented that despite security meetings, increased police patrols with motorcycles, and the installation of security lights, crime continues to persist. In response to the ongoing threat, some locals have resorted to sleeping in shifts to protect their properties from further damage and theft.

Zachary Munyambu, another resident, shared a harrowing experience where the criminals targeted his retail shop along the Thika-Magumu highway. The assailants reportedly tied up his wife and the area security guard before making off with stolen money.

Frustrated and alarmed by the escalating crimes, residents are urging the government to intervene swiftly and restore security, allowing them to carry on with their daily lives without constant fear.