Coffee farmers in Gatundu North, Kiambu County, suffered losses estimated at Ksh1.3 million to Ksh1.5 million after thieves raided a local factory and took 45 bags of coffee.
The robbery occurred around 1am when attackers ambushed and tied up a guard at the factory before overpowering another person who came to help. This marks the third such incident in the area within three weeks, raising fears of organised criminal gangs targeting coffee factories.
Residents described the theft as a major setback for families who had relied on the harvest for income. One resident said, "We were expecting payment from this coffee to support our families. Farmers work hard throughout the season only for criminals to take everything overnight."
Police have launched investigations into the incident. Farmers urged security agencies to strengthen protection around factories and stores to prevent further losses and maintain confidence in the sector, which supports about 800,000 smallholder farmers nationwide and accounts for 60 per cent of Kenya's coffee production in Central Kenya including Kiambu County.