Traders at Chisokone Market have bemoaned the increasing number of street children around the market and town centre.
Both shoppers and traders in Kitwe have lamented the disruptive behavior of the street children.
Traders selling secondhand clothes alleged that there have been frequent incidents where items are snatched from distracted traders by street children.
Raymond Mwansa, a trader, expressed frustration over the deteriorating security situation due to the increase in the number of street children.
He explained that the activities of the street children have severely affected his business, with theft and constant disruptions taking a toll on his sales and peace of mind.
Meanwhile, Richard Mwansa, a shopper stated that the growing presence of street children has caused her fear whenever she visits the market.
She called on authorities to intervene and restore safety, ensuring that vendors and shoppers can go about their activities without disruptions or fear.