By Silverstein Kipchumba
A section of residents of Langas estate on the outskirts of Eldoret Town are up in arms over rising cases of insecurity.
The residents claim the situation is as a result of an increase in drug and substance abuse among the youths in the area.
Led by Rose Wambui, a member of Nyumba Kumi initiative, the locals say the issue is becoming rampant.
Wambui who spoke to Uasin Gishu News on Friday said they have been forced to take action on their own to contain insecurity.
They now want the security team in the area to enhance police patrols and ensure culprits are arrested.
“Our request to the government as residents of Block 4 is that they should hear out our cries and act accordingly by assigning patrol police for the sake of our children’s safety and properties,” said the Nyumba Kumi member.
Street lights
In addition, Wambui has pleaded with the County Government of Uasin Gishu to put in place measures that will address increase in the consumption of illicit drugs among the youths.
Further, John Mwaura, a village elder at Block 4B within the Langas estate pointed out lack of street lights as among the causes of insecurity.
He said most people get mugged at night.
The locals have asked that police officers within the area be transferred,accusing them of laxity.
They also want the county to ensure only licensed liquor stores operate.
Responding to the locals concerns, Otieno Moses an assistant ward administrator promised that the security organs responsible will look into the matters raised.
He further assured that they will engage with the leadership of the police to ensure enhanced patrols in areas that have registered high crime incidences.
“We are also advising landlords to ensure they know their tenants well. This is one of the ways that can help identify those involved in criminal activities,” the Ward Administrator noted.
Langas is one of the biggest informal settlement in the country.
The estate has in the recent years benefited from World Bank-funded projects that has seen an improvement in road networks and installation of several high mast light.
