Administrator concerned over increased vandalism in Kwale

Chief Saum Luvono of Puma location in Kinango subcounty has decried increased vandalism of development projects in the area.

On Saturday in a phone interview, Luvuno said the destruction comes in the wake of the booming illegal scrap metal business in Kinango.

She said residents are stealing water pipes, metals and properties worth millions and selling them in Samburu where there is a ready market for metals.

"Sadly, unknown people have been destroying and stealing metals for crucial projects," she said.

According to Luvuno, the thieves have already caused great destruction to the multimillion Banga government water project within Puma.

She said the water project was established during the colonial period to help residents access clean water for drinking and domestic use.

Luvuno said at the moment water pumping generators, tanks and gates have been stolen.

The chief said the destruction has stalled development and contributed to water shortage in the region.

She said water pipes and chambers along the Kinango-Madzola area have been destroyed and equipment stolen.

"The ongoing water scarcity is facilitated by this vice because the water supply is disrupted due to scrap metal dealings," she said.

Last week, Kwale Governor Fatuma Achani raised an alarm over the increased vandalism of water projects in the region. She said the road metal barriers have also not been spared.

She said they have managed to arrest a few people but more needs to be done.

Luvuno asked the government to deal with unlicensed metal dealers to help bring sanity in the metal business.

The government had earlier banned the scrap metal business following the surge of vandalism cases.

Later, the government announced a gradual lifting of the ban after reviewing scrap metal dealership rules and regulations.

Only the licensed traders were to be allowed to continue with the business after being vetted by authorities comprised of the multi-agency teams. 

The metal theft had previously caused grave damage to power lines, SGR, and streetlights.

Last year, the county development implementation coordinating committee raised an alarm over the rising vandalism and theft of the Dongo-Kundu road equipment.

The committee led by the former county commissioner Joseph Kanyiri blamed vandalism for the delay in the completion of the road that led to losses worth millions.

In February, county commissioner Gideon Oyagi said the scrap metal business encourages the destruction of critical infrastructure in the region.

Meanwhile, Luvuno has asked the vetting agencies to impose strict measures to ensure licenced metal traders are competent and abide by government regulations.

Luvuno has also pleaded with the residents to protect government and development projects for their own benefit.

She said vandalising the projects is spearheading poverty and complicating the government's efforts in improving lives.

"Kindly, protect these projects, they are meant to help you. Destroying them will do us no good," she said.

Last week, Oyagi warned residents against vandalising public and private property. He said the perpetrators risk huge fines and jail terms.

(Edited by Tabnacha O)