Turi residents have expressed concern over increased incidences of cattle rustling in the area. Residents of Kiambiriria Village complained on Sunday that cattle rustling incidents were on the increase in the area.
“Cattle rustling has been the order of the day. Hardly a day passes without bandits stealing our cows “, said Edward Njoroge, a resident of Turi.
John Kariuki, a farmer from Kiambiriria says that bandits steal cows and pass them through Gacharage Forest. “When bandits drive cows to Gacharage Forest, getting them is a problem “, said Kariuki. He claimed that he has lost seven cows in less that a month. The residents claims that the latest incident on took place on Sunday morning where one cow was stolen inspite of local chief's assurance that security has been beefed up.
Confirming the incidences, Kiambiria Chief Joseph Njuguna acknowledged that cattle rustling has been a thorn in flesh in the area. “It's true that Kiambiriria residents have fallen the victims of banditry but the government is doing every thing possible to contain the situation”, said Njuguna .
“The government has increased police patrol in a bid to stem cattle rustling “, said Njuguna. He denied reports that the government has failed in the fight against banditry in the area.
“The provincial administration has stepped up effort to curb banditry “,said Njuguna
The administrator urged residents to report those cooperating with criminals and terrorizing locals .
“ We know that there are criminals working in cahoots with bandits and I urge residents of good will to forward the information so that appropriate action can be taken against them “, said Njuguna .
He also urged the residents to enhance Nyumba Kumi Initative to reduce the incidences of crimes.