The Busia main market has become a hotbed of criminal activity, with traders experiencing a surge in thefts, prompting concerns among both vendors and local authorities. Various sections of the market, including those dealing with fresh foods, general merchandise, fish, and chicken, have fallen victim to thefts over the past week, leaving traders counting significant losses.
Mr. Swaibu Mugambi, the security in-charge at the market, expressed his concern about the rising incidents of theft, stating that in the past three weeks alone, several cases had been reported. The perpetrators are seemingly targeting vulnerable traders, depriving them of their hard-earned capital.
Ms. Kevinah Namwabi, a food vendor, shared her plight, revealing that her entire stock was stolen two weeks ago, leaving her in dire straits. Another trader, Ms. Zainabu Babiwemba, who specializes in selling onions and tomatoes in the fresh foods section, lamented a loss of merchandise valued at Shs500,000.
Despite the presence of police and local security guards, traders remain puzzled about the escalating thefts within the market premises. Mr. Kusini Nkuutu, an operator in the chicken section, questioned the effectiveness of the security measures, highlighting that despite the nightly closure of entrances and contributions made by traders for security, thefts continue to rise.
Busia’s Deputy Resident District Commissioner (RDC), Mr. Grace Kanuna, confirmed the incidents of theft and revealed that the thieves had not only targeted traders but had also broken into the market’s CCTV control room, making off with solar batteries and inverters. Mr. Kanuna is actively coordinating with the police to investigate the thefts and apprehend the culprits.
The RDC attributed the increase in criminal activities to poor lighting in the market. Although the market has electricity, Mr. Kanuna pointed out that a significant challenge is traders’ reluctance to contribute to electricity bills, resulting in inadequate lighting that creates an environment conducive to theft.
Busia Main Market, commissioned in 2020 under the Municipal Agriculture and Trade Improvement Programme (MATIP) at a cost of Shs24.5b, has faced security challenges despite its relatively recent establishment. The African Development Bank provided financial support for the market’s construction.
