Business owners in Kiambu are accusing county enforcement officers of turning license compliance checks into shakedowns. Traders claim that officers are raiding businesses, confiscating goods without creating an inventory, and then demanding a KSh 2,000 bribe to return the items. Those who refuse to pay the bribe are reportedly hit with a KSh 5,000 police cash bail and charged with operating without a license.
According to James Kamau, a business owner, these raids are “humiliating,” with multiple officers storming shops, mishandling employees, and taking goods without a record. A salon employee, Catherine Wanjiru, recounted her experience of being harassed and forced into a county vehicle after officers seized salon equipment without identifying themselves.
The traders’ frustration is compounded by a court order issued by Kiambu Senior Principal Magistrate M. Opondo, which directed the officers to return confiscated property. Despite the order, county officers have allegedly refused to comply, claiming they cannot identify the owners because no inventory was taken.
The traders say they are not refusing to pay for licenses. Instead, they argue that the fees are inconsistent and legally questionable, a matter they have challenged in court.
According to Faith Ruguru, a trader, the county government is aware of their pending lawsuit but has chosen intimidation and harassment over finding a peaceful solution.
The business community is now calling on Governor Kimani Wamatangi to intervene, requesting a meeting to address the issue and to provide civic education on business regulations to foster a better working environment. The court cases have been adjourned until August 26, 2025.