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Residents of Ribe Ward in Kilifi decry rising cases of insecurity

By Farhiya Hussein | Monday, February 19, 2024

Recent incidents of crime prompted locals to take to the streets in peaceful protests.

Residents of Kambe Ribe ward in Rabai Constituency, Kilifi County, are raising alarm over a surge in insecurity plaguing their area.

Recent incidents of crime prompted locals to take to the streets in peaceful protests, pointing fingers at the alleged laxity of police officers stationed in the area.

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Expressing their grievances, residents demanded decisive action, emphasizing the escalating severity of the situation.

One of the residents, Habiba Juma, said four shops have so far been recently broken into and goods of unknown value stolen.

She added that more than eight motor vehicles had been vandalised with their spare parts taken away.

“Numerous shops have been broken into, with no arrests made yet. They brazenly slaughter cows near the police station, implying that the perpetrators are familiar to law enforcement,” she said.

Juma noted the community is frustrated over the lack of arrests despite the brazen nature of the crimes.

Livestock theft

Livestock theft emerged as a prevalent concern among residents, with Abdullah Chai Mukangi recounting instances where unidentified individuals stole cows from various homes and slaughtered them near the Kambe Ribe police station.

Residents of Ribe Ward in Rabai Constituency protest over the insecurity situation in the area. (Photo: Farhiya Hussein)

The grim discovery of scattered cow carcasses near the station's perimeter further fueled the residents' worries.

Residents are calling for swift and effective measures to restore safety and peace to their community.

Moreover, the palpable sense of fear and frustration has instilled a deep sense of urgency among residents, who fear for their safety.

In light of these alarming developments, community leaders are urging the authorities to prioritise the issue of security in the Kambe Ribe ward.

They are calling for increased police presence, enhanced patrols, and better coordination between law enforcement agencies to stem the tide of criminal activities.

Speaking to The Eastleigh Voice, the Rabai Sub County Police Commander Daniel Chirchir said they will hold a meeting with the area DCC and after planning a date, meet with the area residents to better understand their grievances.

Residents are banding together to explore community-based solutions to address the root causes of insecurity in their area.

Initiatives such as neighbourhood watch programmes, community policing efforts, and engagement with local authorities are being actively pursued to complement official law enforcement efforts.