The Nakuru hawkers and street traders association has claimed that cartels have taken over hawkers' stalls that were constructed by the county government in Nakuru town.
The association's chairman, Simon Nasieku, said that most stalls within the town are now under the control of cartels that are charging hawkers operation and protection fee.
Speaking Thursday at Nakuru town, Nasieku said that some hawkers been forced to close businesses after they were ejected for failing to pay the protection fee.
"The cartels have taken over and are calling the shots. Hawkers are forced to pay protection and operation fee or else they face ejection from the stalls," said Nasieku.
"Most hawkers at Nasha square market are paying as much as Sh3,000 as operation fee and there are some paying as much as Sh10,000," he said.
Nasieku claimed that some county officials and elected leaders have partnered with the cartels and are offering them protection.
"Some leaders are working with these cartels to harass hawkers in town," he said.
He called on Nakuru OCPD Musa Kongoli to investigate the claims and arrest those behind the cartels.