Sonko gives up guns for cash deal
Senator Mike Mbuvi ‘Sonko’ has changed tact in his fight against criminals in Nairobi.
He has reduced the amount to be used to induce illegal gun holders to surrender their weapons but has not disclosed the new figure.
Mr Mbuvi has been paying Sh50,000 for every gun surrendered to the police.
“Leaders have expressed concern that Sh50,000 is a lot and that the youth could use it to get other guns,” he said.
The initiative was started in October by the Senator and police after it emerged that many youths had guns.
Rival groups
This was brought to the bare on October 15 during a clash between two rival groups when a man was shot by another from the rival side.
The two groups were fighting for control of the Dandora dumpsite. The conflict was over who should collect levies from lorries ferrying waste to the area.
Two days later, the Senator called a meeting and promised to give Sh50,000 to whoever handed in a gun. They would also be helped to start a business of their choice.
Police, on their part offered amnesty to those who surrendered their guns voluntarily. They, however issued a stern warning to those who would defy the amnesty: you will either be arrested or killed.
Five young men surrendered their guns on October 20.
“Seven other guns will be handed in at a ceremony in Uhuru Park just after the Kenya At 50 celebrations,” Senator Mbuvi said yesterday.