MURANG’A: Murang’a County Commissioner Joshua Nkanatha has expressed alarm over a recent surge in school break-ins and thefts, as well as a troubling rise in suicide cases. In a statement during the Mashujaa Day celebrations at Ihura Stadium, Nkanatha disclosed that six secondary schools have been targeted by burglars in less than a month, resulting in the loss of property valued at thousands of shillings.
According to Kenya News Agency, the break-ins have occurred in high schools located in Gatanga and Kandara sub-counties. Nkanatha reported that stolen items include computers, books, and medals. He noted that several suspects have been apprehended and are currently assisting with investigations. “It’s worrying to witness schools losing properties to thieves,” he said, adding that the burglars often incapacitate school guards before committing the crimes. Authorities are investigating whether these incidents are orchestrated by individuals connected to the schools.
As students prepare for their national ex
aminations, Nkanatha emphasized the importance of increased security at examination centers. He urged the public to refrain from entering these areas to ensure the integrity of the examinations. “Only authorized people are allowed to access examination centers,” Nkanatha stated, calling for community cooperation to provide information leading to the arrest of the perpetrators behind the break-ins.
In addition to the thefts, Nkanatha raised concerns about the rising number of suicide cases in Murang’a County, with nearly weekly reports of such incidents. He noted that over 95 percent of these cases involve men, and he urged community leaders and religious figures to address issues of depression, substance abuse, and domestic conflicts, which are contributing factors. “It’s worrying to lose people through suicide,” Nkanatha said, encouraging leaders to offer hope and support to those in distress.
The County Commissioner also warned bar owners against attempting to reintroduce banned second-generation alcoholi
c brands as the festive season approaches. He announced that inspections of liquor outlets will be intensified to ensure compliance. “The only licensed liquor outlets will be allowed to operate and stock the right brands,” he asserted.
Echoing these concerns, county peace chairperson Jane Kamwanga observed a resurgence of illicit brews in certain areas. She called on the county security committee to intensify efforts against illegal alcohol sales, noting that such activities contribute to increased public intoxication. “From assessments, it shows some bars have resumed selling outlawed brews,” Kamwanga stated.