Mechanics in Meru town on Wednesday morning clashed with street children over rising theft of vehicle parts.
The traders who protested at the Meru Police station said that several vehicle parts have been stolen from their place of work with an early morning incident where part of a lorry engine was stolen and recovered hidden at a nearby stream.
“This is not the first incident. But chaos started after one of the suspected thieves, who is a street child, was arrested and his colleagues started attacking us” said Geoffrey Mutwiri, a trader.
The mechanics also accused the children of harassing and stealing from their clients.During the protests, it also emerged that some of the stolen materials are sold to unsuspecting scrap metal dealers within the area.
“I am bitter because I have suffered due to theft by the street children. I once lost six gear boxes in a similar incident. We want the government to firmly deal with all those involved to curb insecurity in the area,” said a mechanic.
During the protests, Officer Commanding Meru police station Luka Toroitich assured the mechanics that the area will be combed to ensure illegal scrap metal dealers are brought to book.
Gakoromone assistant Chief Brian Mwenda called on the residents to join hands with security agents in combating crime.
“Security begins with you. Let us not be afraid to report suspect who come our way,” said the assistant chief.
The protesting mechanics also called on the Meru county government to ensure street families are rehabilitated.
“It is the mandate of the county government to ensure the social welfare of these street families. We call upon the relevant department to consider even taking them to the the Meru Youth Service to learn skills and better their lives,” said one of the protestors.
