Traders in the Junction area of Ruiru, Kiambu County, have begun reconstructing business stalls destroyed in a devastating fire last Friday. Local leaders and victims have formally petitioned the police and the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) to identify and prosecute those responsible for what they describe as a coordinated arson attack.
Witnesses report that the midnight inferno, which razed over 100 stalls, was allegedly ignited by a gang arriving on motorcycles. The group reportedly harassed security guards on-site before torching the structures, resulting in the total loss of merchandise and property valued at millions of shillings.
Area MCA Kimani Wa Nduta and local businessman Sammy Onyango have condemned the incident, asserting it was a “well-calculated” act rather than an accident. They highlighted a lack of public participation regarding the land’s use, noting that traders’ concerns were ignored prior to the destruction.
In a show of support, Governor Kimani Wamatangi has provided materials to assist the victims in rebuilding. The MCA clarified that the land is owned by the County Government, maintaining that only the regional administration holds the authority to determine its future.
Leadership and traders are now calling for the “masterminds” to be held legally accountable and compelled to compensate the victims. Both officials and the Traders’ Chairman, Michael Njuguna, have appealed to the public and well-wishers for financial support to help the affected families recover their livelihoods.
