Several traders in Murang’a town suffered huge losses after what started as peaceful protests against high fuel prices Monday morning, quickly turned into chaotic running battles between protesters and police extending late into the night, amidst vandalism.
The traders lamented Wednesday, while assessing the damage and counting losses following the overnight violence which left several shops vandalized.
Business owners say normal operations have not fully resumed as fear continues to grip the town after the incident, which saw groups of protestors hurl stones at business premises, breaking windows and damaging property along major streets.
The exact value of the stolen goods has not yet been confirmed.
According to eyewitness accounts, yesterday evening, the demonstrations quickly turned chaotic as crowds moved through the town, forcing many traders to close their businesses early in order to protect their property.
“We closed our shops immediately when we saw people throwing stones and breaking windows. It was very tense.” Said Martin Kamau, who operates a shop in Murang’a town.
Another trader, Mary Mwangi, said the aftermath has left many business owners uncertain and anxious about reopening.
She said they are still unsure whether calm has fully returned or if further incidents could occur, adding, “We have suffered losses and even today many of us are still afraid. We are not sure if it is completely safe to reopen.”
The residents are now calling for heightened security in the town, urging authorities to remain vigilant to prevent a repeat of similar incidents, stating that such continued unrest could severely affect the local economy.
By Purity Mugo and Adrian Kirema
