Residents warned against 'illegal protests' as Kirinyaga security chiefs hold meeting ahead of June 25 anniversary

Security officials in Kirinyaga County have warned youths against participating in illegal demonstrations, engaging in drug abuse, and joining criminal gangs.

The warning was issued on Friday, during a security meeting for Gichugu (Kirinyaga East) and Mwea East sub-counties held in Kutus Town and chaired by Mwea East Deputy County Commissioner (DCC) Fred Ayieko and Kirinyaga East DCC Kamau Maina.

Speaking at the meeting, Ayieko cautioned residents against taking part in unlawful protests, saying demonstrations that result in road closures negatively affect businesses and livelihoods.

"When roads are blocked during demonstrations, businesses are forced to close and traders incur huge losses," he said.

Maina echoed the sentiments, criticizing recent incidents in which sections of the Kagio-Rupingazi road were blocked, saying such actions hinder police operations and disrupt public order.

"We urge residents to ensure such incidents are not repeated," he said.

The warning comes as the country gets ready to mark the second anniversary of the deadly June 2024 protests, sparked by outrage over the then Finance Bill 2024. 

Residents commended security agencies for reducing crime in the area, particularly through operations targeting the notorious Wisame gang.

Some residents expressed relief following the killing of a suspected gang leader known by the alias "Yakuza," whom they accused of mobilizing youths to engage in criminal activities and terrorize residents in Kutus.

"We are happy one of the gang leaders was gunned down, but there are still some members causing trouble. We believe they will be arrested soon," said one resident.

Others claimed that another suspected gang member, identified as "Ziponge," had already been arrested, while security agencies continue pursuing other suspects linked to the gang.

The administrators noted that only a small number of youths attended the meeting, despite youth-related issues being among the area's biggest challenges.

Ayieko said drug abuse, gang involvement, and consumption of second-generation alcohol remain major concerns in the two sub-counties.

"The issues affecting youths here are drugs, gangs and second-generation alcohol. As leaders and parents, we must work together to eliminate drug peddlers," he said.

The officials urged residents to identify and report drug dealers to authorities while encouraging parents to play a more active role in guiding their children.

Maina emphasized the importance of family and moral guidance, urging parents to instill positive values in young people.

Kutus Officer Commanding Station (OCS) Kennedy Ochola said community cooperation is critical in the fight against crime.

"Security begins with the community. More than 20 youths have been arrested and prosecuted for break-ins, while over 40 have been arrested and prosecuted for possession of bhang," he said.

Ochola urged residents to stop blaming police for all security challenges and instead share information that could help prevent crime.

He noted that some youths have been hiding along the Thiba River and targeting university students by stealing their mobile phones.

"Your children are the ones getting involved in crime, and I will not get tired of pursuing offenders. Security starts with you," he said.

Traders Told to Invest in Private Security

The OCS also challenged business owners to take greater responsibility for protecting their premises by hiring watchmen instead of relying solely on police officers.

"My duty is to patrol and maintain security across the town. Business owners should also invest in private security for their properties," he said.

He noted that Kutus is a large and growing town, making it difficult for police officers to guard individual businesses.

The two Deputy County Commissioners urged residents to support security initiatives and work closely with authorities to improve the welfare of young people and the wider community.

Maina encouraged youths to explore opportunities in agriculture and enroll in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions available within the sub-counties.

"We must work together to fight insecurity and avoid involvement in illegal demonstrations," he said.

The security team also warned youths against participating in acts of violence or being used by politicians to cause chaos during demonstrations.

Officials said anyone found engaging in violence, vandalism, or destruction of property would face legal action.

Residents, meanwhile, called for the installation of more street lights and increased police patrols, particularly during market days, to enhance security in the area.