Embu: The business community in Embu Town held protests on Wednesday in response to a surge in insecurity as criminal gangs terrorize the town and its surrounding areas.

According to Kenya News Agency, the protest was triggered by a series of robberies occurring in less than a week, with nearly 10 business premises being broken into and looted. The most recent incident occurred on Tuesday night when a mobile phone and accessories shop was broken into, resulting in the theft of assorted phones and leaving the owner with significant losses.

Residents criticized security agencies for their laxity, accusing them of allowing the town to become a ‘gangsters’ paradise,’ as stated by Embu Town Business Community Chairman Emilio Mungatana. He expressed disappointment over the lack of action taken by authorities to track down the gangs and increase patrols.

In a demonstration of their frustration, protestors barricaded the Embu-Meru Highway and lit bonfires, calling for urgent intervention. They alleged that instead of conducting patrols, many security officers were more focused on collecting bribes from bars and wines and spirits establishments.

The traders further demanded the immediate transfer of police officers who have served in Embu for over five years, arguing that these long-serving officers had lost touch with the community and were ineffective in addressing the insecurity.

Additionally, concerns were raised over the recent dismissal of Municipality Sub-Location Assistant Chief Jackson Kamau, who was praised for his role in curbing crime in the area. Protesters called for his immediate reinstatement.

Efforts by the Embu West Security Committee, led by Deputy County Commissioner Mercy Gatobu and OCPD Zachary Ammue, to pacify the agitated crowd were unsuccessful, as the protestors vowed to continue pushing for reforms.