Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has announced a nationwide crackdown on rogue boda boda riders in a move aimed at dismantling criminal networks.
Speaking on Friday, September 12, in Kisii County, Murkomen said some operators are being used for criminal purposes under the guise of political support, affecting both sides of the political divide.
The CS noted that this has led to serious incidents in the country and directed police officers to identify and arrest individuals using boda boda to rob residents and commit other crimes.
“Some of these boda boda groups are being used to harass, beat, and torture people. To address this, a major crackdown will be conducted with the support of national security officers working alongside the county security team,” Murkomen said.
“This will be done without fear or favor, political bias, or ill will, because our goal is for the people of Kisii to live in a peaceful environment.”
The CS noted that some individuals who previously operated under proscribed groups have hidden within the boda boda sector.
He further instructed the police to work closely with the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) to ensure full compliance with the law, including the proper licensing of all boda boda riders.
“We want the boda boda sector to be regulated independently of political interference,” he added.
“The NTSA should work with relevant county and national authorities to license boda boda operators and punish those involved in criminal activities.”
Also Read: Boda Boda Riders to Wear Uniforms, Get Unique Registration Numbers Under New Rules
CS Murkomen warned that the problem of goons and gangs seen in other parts of the country manifests through rogue boda boda operators.
He added that this trend tarnishes the reputation of many legitimate operators and urged the government to protect the sector by ensuring that those involved in criminal activity are brought to justice.
Murkomen opined that while addressing criminal elements, it is equally important to ensure that the boda boda sector’s economic activities continue to benefit young people, emphasizing the need for a balanced approach that promotes both security and livelihoods.
“The boda boda sector is a multi-billion-shilling economy, and it is important that it is properly organized,” he said.
“We request that the county governments to structure the sector as a legitimate employer and a respectable transport profession that can support security operations.”
Also Read: Kenyan Drivers Angry Over Boda Boda Riders Harassment and Attacks
Boda Boda Riders to Wear Uniforms and Undergo Fresh Registration
This comes a day after the government rolled out new measures in the boda boda sector. Riders will now undergo fresh registration, indicating their designated operating areas, and will be required to wear distinct uniforms based on their location.
Boda boda riders from each sub-county will also have uniforms of specific colours to distinguish them from operators in other areas across the country.
The regulations also mandate that every stage have a chairman, who will be held accountable—and could face arrest—if any law-breaking incidents involving boda boda riders occur under their supervision.
In addition, riders must belong to a registered SACCO group. They will also receive a new registration number in addition to the NTSA plate, indicating their county, sub-county, and passenger stage of operation.
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