In the area of Githurai 45, on the border of Kiambu and Nairobi, on December 6, 2023, prostitutes announced an increase in service charges ranging from Sh50 to Sh100. They attributed this increase to police bribes, which rose from Sh10 per prostitute per day to Sh20, and the Mungiki gang raising their fees from Sh20 to Sh30.
Police and Mungiki are accused of consistently increasing their corruption and robbery fees, blaming it on the rising cost of living. The spokesperson for the prostitutes, Esther Kahiga, stated that the previously affordable service at Sh150 had now risen to Sh200, with quick services going from Sh200 to Sh300.
While the overnight rate was initially at a minimum of Sh1,000, regular clients would now pay a minimum of Sh1,100. Those who are known for generous payments, regardless of standard rates, will continue to be treated as before.
Esther Kahiga expressed confusion about why the police and Mungiki are making their work difficult, especially since their clients are also struggling due to the harsh economic conditions. The prostitutes preferred the Mungiki, considering them better protectors against violence and theft from stubborn clients, contrasting the police who allegedly extort them for money.
Interestingly, there are reports of undercover officers who, after mingling with the prostitutes for investigation, end up robbing clients when they realize the profits exceed their government salary.
Despite the challenges, the prostitutes explained the potential earnings, with one stating that even in tough times, making Sh90,000 per month is possible. This calculation attracts illegal taxation from the police, while the Mungiki profit by positioning themselves as local security officers for the prostitutes.
Now, this sex workers warn clients of increased service charges, deflecting blame onto the police and Mungiki for the situation. They acknowledge appreciative clients who generously pay above standard rates, recognizing the challenges faced by the regular clients who will now experience the added service charges.
By News Hub Creator