Muguka traders from Meru who were evicted from Siakago Town in Mbeere North Constituency, Embu, following violent clash with local Mbeere Community have found a new home and market in Ugweri Market in Runyenjes Constituency.
The traders were violently evicted from Siakago where they had been carrying out their trade for years following skirmishes that erupted three weeks ago between them and the local community.
The clash was reportedly ignited by suspicion from the Mbeere Community that the traders were behind motorcycle theft that has been on the rise in the area for several months.
The suspicion and nonresponse from the police led to bad blood between the two communities that have coexisted peacefully for years and doing business together.
The clash that took place for two days left six people wounded and businesses and property belonging to the Meru traders looted or destroyed after they were overpowered by the locals.
Traders counted losses running into millions of shillings as locals went on a destruction and looting spree of businesses belonging to them.
Several crisis meetings were held by security agencies and senior government officials including Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku to calm the situation.
The traders however reported receiving no Government support as their property was destroyed and their families ejected from their homes.
Though finally settled in the new market, the traders are still reeling from the losses they incurred during the skirmishes, alleging it was politically instigated.
Trader Christopher Kiura said they are still in darkness over what motivated the brazen attack, alleging that they did not get protection from the security agencies as their property was being looted or destroyed.
“If the attack was not politically motivated, at least we could have gotten security reinforcement to safeguard our lives and property,” he lamented.
The traders thanked the local community in the new market for welcoming them with open arms led by area MP Muchangi Karemba.
“We appreciated the hospitality of the people here in Ugweri who have welcomed us and given us a place to carry out our trade,” said trader George Gitonga.
Business has been brisk in the area since their settlement with locals exuding confidence that the economy of the area will experience a turnaround.
By Samuel Waititu
