Hawkers’ anguish as Mungiki raises extortion fees
Hawkers operating in Grogan and Ngara area have lamented at the increment of the fees charged by the Mungiki gang.
They say the gang has doubled the fee over the last month.
Hawkers who were paying out Sh30 to the gang now part with Sh50, while those in city centre now part with Sh100 up from the sh50.
Hawkers who spoke on condition of anonymity for fear of reprisals said the gang strikes between 3pm and 7 pm daily.
“They come in groups of five carrying those big yellow polythene bags. Then one of them stretches his hand which you better obey or your merchandise will be taken away,” said a hawker.
He added that those who dare argue with the group are roughed up in full glare of their colleagues.
According to the hawkers, the gang spends the day lazing by the banks of Nairobi River then come for their ‘share’ when dusk sets in.
When contacted, police blamed the hawkers for supporting gang.
“We are aware the gang terrorizes matatu crews but we have not received any report of them harassing the hawkers,” said Nairobi area Provincial Criminal Investigative Officer Nicholas Kamwende.
He said they will launch investigations into claims that the gang operates in the area.
“Extorting money from traders is a criminal offence and we will bring the offenders to book,” he said.