Nairobi County has intensified efforts to recover public litter bins stolen from residential estates, announcing a cash reward for information leading to arrests.
The initiative comes as county officials continue to tackle vandalism of public property, which has undermined efforts to improve urban cleanliness.
Geoffrey Mosiria, Nairobi County CEC for Citizen Engagement and Customer Service, said the thefts were discovered during inspections of recently installed bins.
“Residents requested these facilities, and the county provided them to enhance hygiene and environmental responsibility,” Mosiria said in a statement posted on X. “It is unacceptable that some individuals have chosen to steal them while others remain silent.”
To curb the theft, Mosiria revealed that the county is offering Sh50,000 to anyone who provides credible information leading to the identification and arrest of scrap metal dealers purchasing the stolen bins and the individuals responsible for the theft.
He emphasized that the reward would be paid once arrests are made.
Mosiria’s statement comes amid concerns over a wider culture of impunity in Nairobi, where theft and vandalism of public infrastructure—including streetlights, manhole covers, and road signs—have persisted.
County officials say these acts result in significant financial losses and slow down service delivery to residents.
The CEC warned that individuals involved in stealing or buying stolen county property would face legal action.
He urged residents to protect shared infrastructure, noting that public cooperation was vital for maintaining clean and safe neighbourhoods.
“We will pursue those responsible and ensure they face the full force of the law,” Mosiria said.
While the county has not disclosed the exact number of bins stolen or the financial impact, the crackdown signals a more assertive approach to protecting public property.
Residents are encouraged to report any suspicious activity to official county channels to assist authorities in their investigations.
Nairobi’s ongoing battle against vandalism underscores the challenges urban centres face in balancing resource allocation, community participation, and enforcement of public property laws.
County leaders have reiterated that safeguarding public facilities is a collective responsibility that requires vigilance from all stakeholders.