Police asked to probe Ruiru stalls arson attack as traders rebuild structures

Police have been asked to investigate and prosecute those behind the arson attack on business stalls in Ruiru, Kiambu County as traders began rebuilding their destroyed structures.

Local leaders also pledged to initiate legal measures seeking compensation for those who lost their property during last Friday’s fire that gutted more than 100 stalls at Junction area.

Traders said nothing was rescued from the midnight inferno that was allegedly started by a gang that arrived in motor bikes and harassed watchmen guarding the premises before proceeding to torch the stalls.

Led by area Member of the County Assembly Kimani Wa Nduta, local leader and businessman Sammy Onyango and their Chairman Michael Njuguna, the traders asked the government to ensure justice prevails and that the victims’ rights are safeguarded.

Area MP Simon King’ara also came under fire for allegedly ordering the removal of the businesses to pave way for construction of a Huduma Center within the compound which also houses the local Chief’s office and an ICT hub.

Kimani dismissed the MP’s decision as unprocedural, maintaining that the land in question is under the county government and that no consultation was made with the Governor’s office over the matter.

ALSO READ:

K-Unity SACCO announces multiple job vacancies on contract basis

“There was no public participation held with all requisite stakeholders to discuss about the intended use of the piece of land. The affected traders were yearning to be heard but instead they were ignored and their properties torched. This was not an accident but a well calculated and planned arson attack,” Kimani said.

He also urged the traders to continue guarding the premises even after the reconstruction of the stalls is finalized, while at the same time appealing to well-wishers to come to their support.

The MCA said Governor Kimani Wamatangi had provided materials for reconstruction of the business structures, insisting that only the regional government has the authority to determine their fate.

“This section is part of a huge tract of land that is owned by the county government and the county leadership griefs with the affected traders. We are grateful to Governor Kimani Wamatangi for aiding the victims rebuild their structures,” the MCA noted.

Onyango said those behind the destruction should be arraigned in court and made to pay for the huge loss incurred by the business people.

“We believe in the rule of law and this is what should be applied. We are calling on the authorities and especially the DCI to act swiftly and apprehend the masterminds and all those involved in this brazen attack. They must be compelled by law to duly compensate all victims,” Onyango said.

ALSO READ:

MUSCO Sacco back to business after Govt reinstates its license

He similarly made an appeal to Kenyans of goodwill to support the affected business persons many of whom have huge financial and family obligations to meet.

“We are calling on all kind-hearted Kenyans to join efforts and help our brothers and sisters whose businesses were reduced to ashes rebuild again. We can try as Ruiru people but we cannot make it but if all Kenyans come together we shall help the victims get back on their feet,” he noted.

Onyango also rallied on the electorate to be mindful of the leaders they elect and make a wise decision at the ballot by voting in leaders who uphold the public interest instead of pursuing selfish interests in total disregard of the law.

The traders said they incurred losses running into millions of shillings in the fire and appealed for support from the government and good Samaritans so as to rebuild their lives.

By John Kamau

Sharing is caring!