Police in Narok County have arrested two individuals involved in vandalizing a bridge under construction and stealing metal beams intended for its construction. The incident, which took place over the Ewaso Nyiro River, has raised serious concerns about the security of vital public infrastructure in the region.
The two suspects, identified as Peter Mwangi and Jane Ndung’u Mtua, were apprehended by officers from Ntulele Police Station after local residents raised an alarm. According to reports, a white lorry, with registration number KBY 213H, was spotted loading stolen metal beams from the construction site. The suspicious activity prompted a swift response from law enforcement officials who, after receiving the tip-off, immediately began to track down the vehicle.
The officers traced the lorry to the Nairegie-Enkare junction, where they successfully intercepted it. Upon stopping the vehicle, they arrested Peter Mwangi, the driver, along with his accomplice, Joyce Ndung’u Mtua. The two individuals were then taken to Ntulele Police Station, where they are undergoing processing for further legal action. In addition, the police seized multiple structural metal beams during the operation, which were identified as having been stolen from the ongoing construction site.
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) issued a statement on Friday, providing details of the arrest and condemning the act of vandalism. The DCI warned that such actions would not be tolerated, highlighting the severe consequences for anyone caught engaging in the destruction or theft of critical infrastructure. The authorities stressed that protecting public assets and ensuring the safety of infrastructure projects is of paramount importance for the development of the region.
Vandalizing public infrastructure has become a growing concern across various parts of Kenya, with individuals targeting construction sites, electrical installations, and other essential facilities. The theft of materials such as metal beams, cables, and equipment not only disrupts ongoing projects but also leads to financial losses and delays in the completion of crucial development works.
This incident in Narok County serves as a stark reminder of the importance of community involvement in safeguarding public infrastructure. The swift action taken by local residents and the police highlights the role of vigilance and cooperation in ensuring that such criminal activities are reported and dealt with promptly.
The arrest of Peter Mwangi and Jane Ndung’u Mtua sends a strong message to those involved in similar illegal activities: the law will pursue them, and there will be no tolerance for the destruction or theft of public assets. The authorities have promised to continue strengthening measures to protect public infrastructure and hold perpetrators accountable.
This case also underscores the broader need for stricter enforcement of laws aimed at protecting national assets, ensuring that public works projects can proceed without disruption and serve their intended purpose of improving the lives of the people.
