Nairobi County Executive Committee Member for Environment, Geoffrey Mosiria, has announced a cash reward of Ksh10,000 to any resident who provides information leading to the arrest of scrap metal dealers purchasing vandalised city dustbins.
In a statement on Monday, August 25, Mosiria explained that this incentive is an extension of the already existing Ksh5,000 reward offered to anyone reporting individuals caught vandalising or fleeing with county dustbins. However, he clarified that the additional Ksh10,000 prize is not funded by the county government, but rather comes from a portion of his own salary.
“It is unfortunate that after we reinstalled dustbins in the CBD, some individuals have resorted to vandalising them and stealing parts of these public facilities. As the County Government, we will not tolerate such acts,” Mosiria said.
He warned that after the vandals and their collaborators are apprehended, the county will pursue legal action. Scrap metal dealers found buying the dustbins will also face consequences.
“For those scrap metal buyers who are buying bins that belong to the county government, we are coming for you. The Ksh5,000 offer for anyone who reports people who vandalise and sell dustbins is still there, but for those who will spot scrap metals with these bins, I will give them Ksh10,000,” he added.
Beyond targeting buyers and vandals, Mosiria revealed that the county has launched a crackdown on street families suspected of being used to vandalise the dustbins. He noted that arrests will also be extended to the individuals orchestrating these thefts through vulnerable groups.
The dustbins, which were installed in May this year alongside cabro works on pedestrian pathways such as Moi Avenue, were designed to promote order, cleanliness, and convenience for city residents. Their modern build, however, has made them attractive to vandals seeking quick profits through illicit scrap metal sales.
Mosiria stressed that safeguarding public amenities like dustbins is essential to restoring the cleanliness, security, and ambience of Nairobi. The county has also been installing modern streetlights to improve visibility and safety within the CBD, reinforcing its commitment to urban renewal and sustainable city management.
