Security officials and business leaders meet to address crime in Eastleigh 

A high-profile security meeting in Eastleigh on Wednesday, brought together Kamukunji Sub-county security officials, bodaboda and taxi operators, and members of the Eastleigh Business District Association.

The meeting, chaired by the newly appointed Kamukunji Deputy County Commissioner (DCC) Fredric Muli, aimed to address the growing insecurity in the area and propose measures to curb it.

The event was attended by key figures in the security sector, including Starehe Officer Commanding Police Division (OCPD) Wilson Muraya, his Buruburu counterpart Francis Kamau, and Eastleigh Business District Association Chief Executive Officer Mohamed Adan.

Transport sector representatives, including bodaboda and taxi leaders, also participated.

Kamukunji Sub-county security committee holds a meeting with bodaboda and taxi operators within Kamukunji Sub-county. Top of the agenda is how these operators can help the security team in fighting crime. (Ahmed Shafat)

Security concerns

During his address, DCC Muli acknowledged Eastleigh's critical role in Kenya's economy, emphasising that the area contributes significantly to national revenue through taxes. He stated that insecurity in the region poses a threat to business continuity and economic stability.

"Eastleigh contributes billions of shillings in taxes, which directly support the functioning of our government. It is our duty to ensure that this area remains safe for business and its residents," Muli said.

He expressed concerns about the role of the transport sector, particularly bodaboda riders and taxi operators, in facilitating crime by unknowingly providing transport services to criminals.

He urged them to form associations to improve communication and to monitor each other's activities. He also called for greater vigilance in identifying and reporting suspicious individuals.

"Do not transport criminals or help them escape. If you carry someone suspicious, report them to the authorities," he added.

The DCC further indicated that immigrants have been linked to some of the recent security issues in the area. He announced plans to profile undocumented individuals in collaboration with the police.

Kamukunji Deputy County Commissioner Fredric Muli flanked by other security officials while addressing the gathering in Eastleigh. (Ahmed Shafat)

Community involvement

Starehe OCPD Muraya urged the local community and transport operators to take a more active role in ensuring security. He criticised the use of the maslaha system, a traditional method of conflict resolution, for allowing some criminals to avoid police detection.

"Maslaha can sometimes deliver stricter punishments than courts, but without involving the police, the criminal remains unknown to us. This creates loopholes in the justice system. Report all criminals so we can take appropriate action," he said.

He also emphasised the importance of knowing their neighbours. "Security starts with us. Know your neighbour because they could be a criminal who might harm you," he said, adding that police operations to flush out criminals and undocumented immigrants in Eastleigh would begin soon.

Buruburu OCPD Kamau echoed similar sentiments, highlighting Eastleigh's unique challenges due to its dense population and vibrant business activities. He called on all stakeholders to unite in maintaining peace and order in the area.

"Do not transport criminals. Report any bad elements you encounter, and we will handle them discreetly," Kamau urged.

Kamukunji Sub-county security committee holds a meeting with bodaboda and taxi operators within Kamukunji Sub-county. (Ahmed Shafat)

Streamlining operations

Representing the Eastleigh Business District Association, CEO Mohamed Adan noted the area's appeal to bodaboda and taxi operators due to its thriving business environment. However, he cautioned against overcrowding, which could exacerbate existing issues.

"Eastleigh is a small area. While it is positive that so many want to work here, it is not feasible to accommodate everyone. We must manage the number of operators," Mohamed stated.

Moses Lihanda, the chairman of the Kamukunji Sub-county bodaboda association, announced plans to establish gazetted bodaboda stages to streamline operations. He also proposed introducing uniforms for riders to enhance identification and accountability.

"There are ten registered bodaboda Saccos in Kamukunji. We aim to designate specific stages for operation and ensure riders are easily identifiable," Lihanda said.

Taxi driver representative Ahmed Hassan raised concerns about reckless bodaboda riders, which he said often leads to conflicts and sometimes even crime. He also pointed out incidents of tribalism, where individuals are told to "go back home," claiming Eastleigh as their territory. Ahmed called for unity and mutual respect among all operators.

The participants agreed on the need for collaboration between security officials, transport operators, and business leaders to tackle crime and enhance safety in Eastleigh. DCC Muli reiterated his commitment to working closely with all stakeholders to create a secure environment conducive to business growth.

The bodaboda and taxi operators pledged to cooperate with security agencies by reporting suspicious activities and adhering to agreed-upon guidelines.

Security officials assured the community that they would take firm action against any criminal activities and ensure the safety of all residents and business operators.