Defilement case lifts lid on alarming insecurity in Bahati

The small estate of Kwa Amos, in Bahati County remains haunted by the events that transpired on February 21, where a two-year-old was defiled by an unknown person.

Now, anxiety grips the residents, adults and children alike.

At the scene where this heinous act occurred is an abandoned building, covered with a thicket.

We are informed that the building houses a number of illegal activities from drug peddling to a hiding den for those with ill intentions.

As we walk through the thicket, we come across human solid waste scattered in various spots, further cementing the residents’ accounts.

In one corner, it’s clear that some people use the area as a hangout spot, as evidenced by the stones arranged in a sitting formation.

We ask the community why they haven’t cut down this thicket to which they respond it’s not as easy as it seems.

Peter Maina, a local resident, explains, “For the longest time, we’ve wanted to clear this area and remove the tall shrubs. However, this is private property, and there’s the issue of trespassing, so we haven’t really attempted it.”

Mr. Maina adds that insecurity has been on the rise in the area, with youth resorting to drug abuse and turning the abandoned structure into a chilling spot.

“Some of the youth have even dropped out of school to sell bhang. Another issue is the illicit alcohol trade, which has spread across many parts of the area. Most of the youth here indulge in it,” he says.

Maina himself was a victim of theft three years ago.

He shares that although the perpetrators, who were well-known in the area were arrested while trying to sell some of his stolen items, he never recovered them and ultimately decided to stop following up on the matter.

Esther Waweru, a local resident, expresses her fear regarding the security situation.

“Sometimes, as I head to the shops, I pass by groups of young men along the road. I’m always scared especially after hearing what happened to that little boy. I want to condemn that act and I pray the child gets justice,” she laments.

Ms. Grace Wambui shares Esther’s concerns, saying it’s difficult to even send their children to the shop, let alone allow them to play with friends.

 “We live in constant fear, not knowing who might be the next victim. We hope to see change soon because this is our home. Personally, I’ve lived here for 16 years, and this is where I call home,” she says.