By S, KNA
Six people have been injured in Siakago Town of Mbeere North Constituency, Embu, following a violent clash between muguka traders from Meru and the local Mbeere Community.
The clashes that started on Monday have also seen property including businesses and two vehicles torched as the fight intensified.
The clash is reportedly said to have been sparked by rampant theft of motorcycles with residents pointing an accusing finger at Meru miraa traders of being behind the theft.
Enraged residents decided to confront the Ameru traders over the matter after reported inaction from the police.
The move however led to a fierce confrontation between the two warring groups.
Businesses remained closed for the two days as police tried to calm the situation with locals maintaining that they want the traders out of their town.
Two Toyota Probox vehicles were torched and several businesses belonging to the Meru traders looted and others burnt down on Tuesday as the confrontation escalated.
Security agencies, including police officers and local administration officials, convened an urgent meeting on Tuesday morning in a bid to quell the tension.
However, the deliberations and the talks failed to yield an amicable resolution, as both sides stood firm on their positions.
Eyewitnesses reported sporadic confrontations between the rival groups, with stones being hurled and verbal exchanges turning into physical altercations.
The presence of Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku who is the immediate former area MP later in the day helped restore calm with a promise of finding a lasting solution to the impasse.
He announced a raft of measures instituted by the Government to quell the situation including transfer of senior police officers including Sub County police Commander, OCS and DCIO.
He also promised that those whose business were looted or torched will be compensated by the Government.
“We must not let criminal acts by a few individuals divide our community; it’s true there are criminals, but dialogue and cooperation are the only ways forward. Criminals will be arrested and charged. A criminal is a criminal,” said Ruku.
Meanwhile, police have been deployed to Siakago Town to maintain order and prevent further clashes.
Ends/Social/Ongaga/Ngala
Photo captions
1.Smoke billows in Siakago Town, Embu, as residents clash with muguka traders from Meru.
2.One of the vehicles torched during the confrontation between Siakago residents and Muguka traders from Meru.
3. Siakago residents carry an injured man to hospital.
