Vipingo Ridge, the luxurious golf resort in Kilifi, is facing a growing crisis as recent thefts, security lapses, and reports of mistreatment have left homeowners frustrated and concerned.
The high-end development, home to prominent figures, has been rocked by a series of troubling incidents, including thefts of valuables from several properties.
For weeks, residents, including some of Kenya’s most well-known personalities, have raised alarms about missing items from their homes.
Despite these reports, management initially dismissed the complaints. However, last week, the resort’s CEO, Alex Horsey, was forced to acknowledge the security issues following a theft on January 17.
In an email to homeowners, he confirmed that valuables had been stolen from one residence, although the exact number of affected homes and the value of the missing items were not disclosed.
Horsey assured the community that the police were investigating the matter and that security measures were being strengthened.
“At 11:30 AM today, Vipingo Ridge security were alerted to missing items in a homeowner’s residence. Following our security protocols, the residence perimeter was secured and the police notified. We are fully cooperating with the authorities as this is an active investigation,” the email read.
The email also outlined new security measures, including increased vehicle and pedestrian searches at the main entrance.
However, the communication, which was sent to all homeowners without their consent, has only added to the frustration, with many residents upset about the breach of their privacy.
Among the homeowners affected are Chief Justice Martha Koome, former Vice President Kalonzo Musyoka, and other notable figures.
In response, over 100 residents have now signed a petition demanding the resignation of resort chairman Trevor Finn and CEO Alex Horsey.
But security issues aren’t the only concern. Several workers have come forward with claims of harassment, alleging that Finn had been involved in inappropriate conduct, including sexual harassment.
There have also been accusations that long-serving employees were unfairly dismissed after rejecting unwanted advances.
As homeowners prepare to take further action, including possible legal proceedings, the future of Vipingo Ridge hangs in the balance.
The once-thriving resort now finds itself at the center of a storm, with trust in its leadership rapidly eroding.