Rose Wanja Petitions DCI Over Alleged Illegal Traders, Incitement Claims in Kangemi

Rose Wanja, a concerned resident and community stakeholder from Kangemi, has formally petitioned the Directorate of Criminal Investigations over the alleged illegal occupation of public walkways and road reserves within the area.

In a letter dated May 7, 2026, addressed to the DCI headquarters in Nairobi, Wanja raised concerns over what she described as continued obstruction of public spaces by illegal traders despite earlier efforts by authorities to restore order.

According to the complaint, the return of traders to public walkways has allegedly contributed to congestion, insecurity, sanitation challenges, blocked drainage systems, and growing tension among residents.Wanja further cited alarming allegations surrounding statements reportedly encouraging traders to arm themselves with tools such as fork jembes for “protection,” warning that such remarks could escalate intimidation, confrontation, and public disorder within the community.She also referenced a video recording allegedly showing Hamisi Maleya Hamisi making remarks related to the return and protection of traders occupying public spaces in Kangemi.

Wanja called on investigators to independently verify the authenticity and contents of the recording and take appropriate legal action where necessary.In her petition, she urged the DCI to investigate any possible incitement or mobilization that could threaten peace and public order and ensure that enforcement of the law is conducted fairly, peacefully, and within constitutional frameworks.“We support lawful trade and economic empowerment of wananchi. However, all business activities must operate within legally designated areas and in compliance with the law for the safety and benefit of all residents,” the letter stated.

The complaint was also copied to William Samoei Ruto, Johnson Sakaja, the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, the National Police Service, and the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission.Wanja appealed for urgent intervention to restore safety, accessibility, public order, and lawful use of public spaces within Kangemi.