The government has dispatched a special investigative team to Siakago Town in Mbeere North, Embu County, after two days of violence left several businesses in ashes and some residents nursing injuries.
Public Service, Human Capital Development and Special Programmes Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku, addressing a community meeting at the Mbeere North Deputy County Commissioner’s Grounds, assured locals that all perpetrators would be brought to justice. He issued a stern warning to public servants, including police officers, who may have abetted or turned a blind eye to the chaos.
“No one will be spared. Any officer found to have abetted or ignored these crimes will face the full force of the law,” CS Ruku said, decrying corruption within the police force. He expressed concern over allegations that officers demanded bribes colloquially referred to as a “pen or writing material” before assisting crime victims.
The CS emphasised that the government has invested heavily in upgrading local institutions like Siakago Police Station and would not tolerate misconduct or negligence. His remarks came after residents recounted troubling experiences of bribery when reporting thefts and other crimes.
Businessman Peter Mutiru, whose hardware shop was among those destroyed, claimed CCTV footage showed attackers being shielded. He estimated his losses at nearly Sh5 million.
The newly formed investigative team is expected to commence work immediately. Residents expressed optimism that the probe will deliver justice and restore trust in law enforcement.
Ruku urged the community to maintain peace, stressing that unity is vital for development and security. He pledged government support for affected residents and assured business owners that compensation will be provided to those whose property was damaged or looted.
“We must not allow the actions of a few individuals to divide our community. Anyone involved in criminal activities in Siakago will be held accountable regardless of their background,” he affirmed.
The violence, which erupted on Monday, disrupted business operations, paralysed transport, and heightened security concerns in Siakago. Authorities hope that swift investigations and strict enforcement will bring calm back to the troubled town.
