The shocking child trafficking network recently exposed in Mai Mahiu, Nakuru County, has sparked a wave of public outrage, urgent government intervention, and growing criticism of local leaders who have remained silent on the issue.
The exposé, led by the BBC, revealed harrowing details of how vulnerable children were being lured, abducted, and sold in a well-organised trafficking ring operating within the bustling Mai Mahiu trading centre. Undercover footage showed perpetrators openly negotiating prices for the children and coordinating with criminal networks to transport them to other locations.
The story sent shockwaves across the country, prompting swift responses from national leaders and human rights advocates. Victims identified in the footage have since been rescued, with several now under the care of child protection agencies. Police have confirmed that at least five suspects are in custody, with investigations still underway to dismantle the wider network.
Governor Susan Kihika, whose Nakuru County jurisdiction covers Mai Mahiu, has vowed decisive action against the perpetrators and pledged full cooperation with law enforcement agencies.
“This is an unacceptable, heartbreaking crime against our children. We are working closely with the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) to ensure all those involved face the full force of the law. My administration will strengthen child protection measures, increase public awareness, and support rescue operations for all victims,” Kihika stated during a press briefing in Nakuru.
Transport Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen also condemned the incident, urging tighter surveillance in transit hubs that traffickers often exploit.
“Mai Mahiu is a gateway for trade and travel, but it should never be a gateway for child exploitation. We are coordinating with security agencies to ensure these criminals have no hiding place,” Murkomen said.
Azimio leader Martha Karua described the events as a “national shame,” calling for urgent legislative and policy reforms to combat trafficking.
“This is a scar on our conscience as a nation. We cannot claim to protect our children while such evil continues in broad daylight,” Karua remarked.
The National Police Service confirmed ongoing rescue operations and pledged to dismantle all trafficking routes. In a statement, NPS spokesperson noted:
“We have deployed specialised units to investigate this matter and will ensure all offenders are apprehended and prosecuted.”
Despite the strong national response, residents of Naivasha have voiced disappointment at the silence of their elected MP, Jane Kihara, and other local leaders, accusing them of ignoring the suffering of their constituents.
“We are waiting for our leaders to stand with us, but instead, they are quiet. This is the time to speak, act, and protect our children,” said Mary Wanjiku, a resident of Mai Mahiu.
Public pressure continues to mount, with civil society groups planning protests and awareness campaigns to demand more action against trafficking. Meanwhile, Governor Kihika has called for a joint task force between county officials, security agencies, and international partners to ensure no child in Nakuru County falls prey to such criminal syndicates again.
