Mosiria puts scrap metal dealers on notice over vandalism in Nairobi
By Joel Masibo, August 26, 2025Nairobi County Environment Chief Officer Geoffrey Mosiria has raised an alarm over the rising cases of vandalism targeting newly installed litter bins in the Central Business District (CBD), warning that businesses linked to the theft will face action.
Taking to his X account on Tuesday, August 26, 2025, Mosiria condemned the destruction and theft of the public facilities, saying the culprits are suspected to be working in collusion with scrap metal yards.
“It is unfortunate that the newly installed litter bins in the CBD are being stolen by individuals believed to be linked to scrap metal yards. We will be taking firm action against those involved,” Mosiria stated.
The county official also urged Nairobi residents to actively support the city’s cleanliness campaign by protecting public property. To boost vigilance, he announced a cash reward system for members of the public who help nab offenders or identify scrap metal dealers trading in the stolen bins.
Cash reward
“If you arrest or catch someone stealing a litter bin, please report it to us, and I will personally reward you with Ksh5,000. If you identify a scrap metal dealer in possession of stolen bins, the reward will be Ksh10,000,” he said.
Mosiria emphasised that the county government has invested heavily in the installation of the bins to promote hygiene and proper waste disposal in the capital. The thefts, he noted, undermine both the city’s beautification efforts and the fight against littering.
“This is the only way we can stop these petty thieves and protect the investments made to keep our city clean. Let’s work together to safeguard our city’s cleanliness and public resources,” he added.
The county’s warning comes amid ongoing concerns about vandalism of public infrastructure in Nairobi, including manhole covers, road signs, and drainage systems, many of which have ended up in scrap metal yards.
Such cases of vandalism were also reported during last year’s anti-Finance Bill protests and the recent anti-government demonstrations in the city centre, where shops were also broken into and properties of unknown value were stolen.