Mavoko MP Patrick Makau's representative Felix Mambo (L), Mlolongo acting Chief Soul Mwasia, area Assistant County Commissioner Joshua Okello with Mlolongo OCS Eric Mogaka pose for a photo during a stakeholders security meeting in Mlolongo, Machakos county on October 29, 2026.

Stakeholders in Mlolongo have resolved to combine synergy and enhance collaboration to restore security in the area.

The resolution was made on Thursday during a security engagement that brought together the local administration, police, business community, boda boda operators and Mavoko MP Patrick Makau’s office to address rising concerns over insecurity.

Officials from the County Government of Machakos were also in attendance.

During the meeting chaired by Mlolongo Assistant County Commissioner Joshua Okello, stakeholders agreed to strengthen information sharing between residents and security agencies, enhance community policing through Nyumba Kumi clusters and intensify patrols in crime-prone areas.

They also resolved to crack down on illicit brew, drug dens and unregulated rental houses said to be harbouring criminals, as well as enforce compliance among bars and entertainment joints operating beyond permitted hours.

Speaking after the forum, the security team assured residents that stern action will be taken against criminal gangs and called on the public to volunteer timely information without fear.

“Today we had a fruitful meeting. In the company of the Mlolongo Divisional Security Committee, we saw it necessary to meet very crucial stakeholders in the security sector which included the boda boda operators. Our attention was drawn to the need to have them on board so that we address issues touching on security,” Okello said.

Okello said the security committee had noted that a few bad elements were trying to infiltrate the boda boda sector by introducing insecurity incidents like goonism or ferrying stolen goods.

He said such riders are used by culprits to transport bhang, chang’aa and illicit second-generation liquor.

“We have talked and agreed on a number of issues. We have mapped the division and arrested several suspects in connection to crime within Mlolongo. So far, about five boda boda riders are in remand. They were charged with drug trafficking,” Okello said.

He assured residents of their safety through intensified day and night patrols.

“We are issuing a stern warning that the few bad elements trying to taint the sector will be dealt with accordingly,” he said.

The administrator noted that there was already an influx of people in Mlolongo division ahead of the December festivities.

“We are on the lookout to ensure no criminals get into Mlolongo division. Residents including boda boda operators should desist from being politically misused,” he said.

He urged parents to play their parental roles by being close to their children during the long holiday.

Community representatives pledged to work closely with the police and chiefs to flush out suspects and promote peaceful coexistence.

The stakeholders said unity among all actors is key to sustaining peace and protecting businesses in Mlolongo, which serves as a key transit town along the Nairobi-Mombasa highway.

MP Makau’s representative Felix Mambo said boda boda operators play a critical role in the country’s economy.

“These young men are not just riders, they are breadwinners, fathers and the engine of our local economy,” Mambo said.

He said the MP’s office is keen on walking with the riders and growing the boda boda sector.

“Under Makau’s leadership, we are committed to pushing for well-lit streets, boda boda sheds and sanitation. We also champion regular safety and road discipline training alongside engaging security agencies to end insecurity and alleged harassment. The hustler must be respected, protected and empowered,” he said.

Mavoko youth leader Erick Matheka said he was proud to be a pioneer of the boda boda sector in the constituency.

“Security is sensitive. It is a multi-agency approach that requires to be addressed by all sectors. Criminals must be flushed out from the boda boda sector,” Matheka said.

Mlolongo Syokimau Boda Boda Association Chairman Alex Mutuku urged members to cooperate with security agencies.

“Today we convened a boda boda meeting to talk matters security with NGAO and national security officers led by the Mlolongo OCS and ACC. We aimed to bring back together boda boda riders and also ensure their safety while on the road and during their daily duties,” Mutuku said.

“I want to tell my riders across Mlolongo, Sabaki, Syokimau, Katani and all areas, let’s cooperate with security enforcers so that our hustles become easier. We do not lose our property and also avert insecurity to our passengers,” he said.

Mutuku said they had agreed on certain measures to streamline the sector.

“We have been advised to stop using flash lights and have banned the use of exposed pipes that make a lot of noise. We have also agreed that riders should stop changing the colour of their bikes to the extent of not being able to notice its real colour,” he said.