A standoff over the control of sand harvesting in Kiambere Ward has forced Mbeere South Deputy County Commissioner Jacob Mwaura to suspend the lucrative business after rival Community-Based Organisations (CBOs) clashed over proceeds.

The dispute erupted when members of the Karura community formed their own CBO, accusing Kiambere Ward Community Based Organization of monopolizing profits and unfairly distributing the income from sand sales. The move triggered widespread unrest among residents, with supporters of the existing CBO taking to the streets in protest.

Angry demonstrators blocked the busy Kivaa-Mutuombare road for hours, halting transport and demanding immediate government intervention. As the situation escalated, Mwaura, alongside other security officers and local MCA Lenny Masters, rushed to the scene to de-escalate the protests.

Addressing the restless crowd, the leaders called for calm, assuring them that the grievances surrounding the sand business and the rival CBOs were being addressed. However, the demonstrators, dissatisfied with the response, began walking out, forcing Mwaura to hastily consult with security officials and MCA Masters.

In a reluctant but decisive move, the commissioner then suspended all sand harvesting activities in the area until the conflict could be resolved. The suspension is expected to remain in effect until a fair resolution between the two CBOs is reached, leaving the community in anticipation of what comes next.

The sand business, a major source of livelihood for many in Kiambere, now hangs in the balance, with tensions simmering as both sides await further government action.