4-mile settlers cry foul over sudden eviction at Works compound

Hundreds of settlers at the Four-Mile Works compound were forced to vacate their homes today as an eviction exercise commenced under heavy police presence.

NBC News witnessed backhoes' moving into the area while residents watched helplessly. The sudden move has sparked outrage among the settlers, who claim the exercise began a week earlier than scheduled.

According to the settlers, many of whom are mothers, an official notice had given them until next week to vacate. Residents stated they were already in the process of packing but were caught off guard when police ordered them out this morning.

“We were told this week was for awareness,” one resident claimed.

Settlers alleged the timeline was fast-tracked following a violent altercation between a police officer and a resident last night.

Assistant Police Commissioner for NCD and Central Command, Benjamin Turi, confirmed that an incident occurred last night but denied it was the catalyst for today's action.

Turi stated that the eviction is a result of defied notices, public safety and crime prevention.

He said residents had reportedly ignored multiple previous eviction warnings. Nearby buildings have been condemned and ongoing criminal activities in the area prompted authorities to take final action.

The atmosphere at the site was somber. One mother told NBC News that the lawless behavior of local youths ultimately cost the entire community their homes.

NBC News attempted to enter the compound to survey the damage but was denied access by police cordons.

While Commissioner Turi had previously indicated an awareness period would occur this week, the arrival of heavy machinery today showed an immediate end to the settlement