Crime in Thika 1968-1977

Abstract

Despite the paucity of data available regarding crime rates in developing countries, and the variations in the adequacy of the statistics, one finds that the generalization that criminality is , rapidly increasing in developing countries can be substantiated. 'And Kenya, as a developing country, seems to adhere to this pattern.Studies of crime in Kenya are therefore needed if one is to try to prevent an escalation of criminal activity as Kenya continues to develop economically. The author chose to study crime in Thika since Thika is a growth centre and as such has expanded at a considerable rate in the last ten years, and the population growth is expected to continue in this direction - at around 11.1% per year. This study gives the results of a questionnaire applied to 150 Thika residents, and findings from the police summaries for 1968-1977; in addition data gathered from the police registers for this period is analysed. Major hypotheses which were tested were: (1) Men have committed relatively more crimes than women; (2) The majority of crimes are committed by persons between the ages 20-35 years. Testing of the hypotheses indicated that most crimes in Thika are committed by men aged 20-35 years.The author found that the research could have been carried out more effectively if those recording the details of the accused person in the police registers could be more accurate in their descriptions of age, place of residence and occupation of the accused person. The major recommendations the author wishes to make involve the design of houses; the patrolling of certain areas at night by police; increase~ co-operation amongst members of a community as a result of improved social facilities. Finally ,the author feels that a possible long term solution to Thika's criminal activity is to encourage the development of tne informal sector