Nairobi News

Ruiru, a vibrant suburb in Kiambu County, faces security challenges along Bypass, one of its notable areas.

Despite its economic significance, temporary stalls along the roadside have turned into hideouts for criminals, raising concerns among residents.

According to Dominic Mbuthia, a local resident, these stalls have become hotspots for thieves who target passengers waiting for matatus along the intersection of roads leading to Kahawa West, Ruiru Town, Thika, Nairobi, and Embakasi.

“The criminals target passengers boarding or alighting from matatus. When they snatch phones, they flee to the stalls,” says Dominic told Nairobi News.

The makeshift structures, situated on land owned by the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA), were demolished in 2022 for road expansion. However, they have resurfaced, serving as havens for criminal activities.

Stall owners have reported incidents of harassment to the Ruiru Police Station, but their pleas have allegedly gone unanswered.

Some traders, like Ann (not her real name), for safety reasons, express frustration, emphasising that criminals tarnish their reputation.

“We are innocent traders trying to provide for our families. Thieves are tarnishing our reputation,” says Ann, who also highlights the known individuals involved in theft and crime. However, revealing their identities poses risks to the safety of traders.

Calling for intensified efforts from security officials, Ann suggests that cracking down on criminals is crucial to restoring safety in the area.

With its administrative area falling under Member of Parliament Mr Simon King’ara, according to data from the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS), Ruiru is estimated to have a population of over 445,000 residents.

While Bypass faces security challenges, it remains renowned for Kamakis, where locals and visitors indulge in incredibly delicious fried meat, adding a unique flavor to the vibrant suburb.