EMBU, Kenya – Farmers in Runyenjes Constituency have raised alarm over a sharp increase in theft of farm produce, including coffee, macadamia nuts, avocados, mangoes, muguka and other crops, a trend they say is threatening their livelihoods and discouraging farming activities in the area.
Runyenjes Member of Parliament Muchangi Karemba has urged the vetting of all licensed buyers and sellers of farm produce reported to be lost through theft.
Karemba said it is only through proper vetting that loopholes used by thieves can be sealed and the vice brought to an end.
He further noted that he will lobby the Embu County Government through the leadership of Governor Cecily Mbarire to get involved in stopping the theft at the county level through the county security team, adding that the matter is currently being handled by the Sub-County Security Team.
On her part, Embu East Deputy County Commissioner (DCC) Jane Waruinge encouraged residents of Runyenjes to work closely with Nyumba Kumi structures, assistant chiefs, and chiefs in addressing the problem.
She called on the public to always share intelligence with authorities whenever they are suspicious of individuals stealing from them and to report those they have already identified as thieves, saying this will make it easier for authorities to arrest suspects and put an end to the culture of stealing farm produce in Runyenjes Constituency.
Meanwhile, Runyenjes Sub-County Police Commander Hassan Goddana urged residents to come out in large numbers and report all cases of theft to the police whenever they occur.
Goddana emphasized that prompt reporting will help security agencies take swift action against criminals and curb the rising cases of farm produce theft in the area.
Residents have expressed hope that the combined efforts of security agencies, local administrators and political leaders will restore safety and protect farmers’ hard-earned harvests.
