Demanding money: Armed goons block section of Thika superhighway
This story has significance for readers across Kenya and beyond.
- Motorists on Thika Superhighway faced disruption after armed groups reportedly blocked the road and demanded money
- The incident was linked to anger over the police shooting of a young man allegedly involved in pineapple theft
- Motorists were advised to avoid the affected Montezuma-Makenji-Kabati stretch as authorities responded to the developing situation
Motorists using the Thika Superhighway faced disruption on Saturday, August 22, after groups armed with pangas reportedly blocked the road and demanded money from motorists.
The incident was reported along the Montezuma-Makenji-Kabati stretch, with individuals using stones to obstruct sections of the busy highway and stopping vehicles attempting to pass.
The confrontation reportedly involved both protests and opportunistic mugging, with motorists allegedly being forced to part with money before being allowed through the blocked sections.
The incident has raised concerns over the safety of motorists using the route, with the situation remaining fluid as authorities respond.
Why were motorists blocked on Thika Superhighway?
The disruption was reportedly linked to anger over the recent shooting of a young man by police after he was allegedly involved in pineapple theft at Del Monte Farm.
Local accounts indicated that some of those involved in the protests were individuals associated with pineapple theft activities in the area.
The protesters reportedly moved from sections of the Thika Superhighway near Montezuma towards Makenji and Kabati along the Kenol-Makenji stretch, according to Armistice Security Consult International.
The use of pangas and stones heightened concerns over possible confrontations, vehicle damage and robbery.
What is the security situation in Makenji?
The incident was reported during the morning, with police deployment noted along some sections of the wider Embu-Nairobi and Thika corridor.
Motorists were advised to avoid the affected section between Montezuma, Makenji and Kabati until the situation is brought under control.
Those already approaching the area were advised to avoid stopping where it was safe to continue, keep their vehicle windows closed and doors locked, and avoid engaging with individuals blocking the road.
Motorists were also urged to follow police instructions and monitor real-time traffic and security updates before travelling through the affected area.
Source: TUKO.co.ke
Reporting originally appeared via TUKO. Read the full source for additional context.