Traders at the scene where their structures were demolished in Mlolongo, Machakos county on August 4, 2026.More than 300 young people have been left without jobs after a night demolition flattened dozens of small businesses in Mlolongo, Machakos County, leaving traders counting heavy losses and demanding answers.
The structures, which housed car wash businesses, food kiosks and other informal enterprises, were demolished on Tuesday night along the Nairobi-Mombasa Highway near Signature Mall.
The affected traders said they lost car wash machines, water tanks, iron sheets, timber and other property during the operation.
The traders claimed they were not issued with any demolition notice, denying them the opportunity to salvage their property before the structures were brought down.
They also questioned why one car wash in the same area was left untouched while the rest were demolished.
Some victims alleged that equipment and other belongings disappeared during the exercise, which involved a bulldozer and a team hired to carry out the demolition.
The affected youth are now appealing to the relevant authorities, including Machakos Governor Wavinya Ndeti, to intervene, saying the demolition has wiped out their only source of income.
"We have been operating car washes in this area for years. More than 300 young people have lost their livelihoods. We have no rent, no food and no peace," said trader Caroline Muia.
Muia said it was the second time structures in the area had been demolished.
"They have demolished everything this time. We have nothing left. Some of these young people used to sleep in the structures that were demolished. What will they eat? What will we feed our children?" she said.
The traders also questioned what government intends to do with the road reserve after clearing the businesses.
Another trader, George Kimeu, said he received a phone call at about 11pm informing him of the demolition.
"When I arrived, I found people demolishing the structures. The police officers who accompanied them were not from Mlolongo. Why were officers from outside this area used?" he said.
Athi River East Sub-County Police Commander Anderson Mbae said officers under his command were not involved in the operation.
"The exercise may have been carried out by another authority. We were not aware of it," Mbae told The Star.
Trader Erick Maloba appealed for the return of equipment he claimed was taken during the demolition.
"They should return our car wash machines, water tanks and other property so that we can start earning a living elsewhere," he said.
