Boda boda operators in Kirinyaga protest over 'harassment' by loan sharks repossessing motorcycles

Led by Kirinyaga Chairman Michael Kariua, the operators claim that some lenders are targeting riders who are close to completing their loan repayments. According to Kariua, motorcycles are allegedly being tracked and seized without due process.

In a recent incident reported at Wang’uru Police Station, a motorcycle was allegedly taken by a loan company and later found abandoned without fuel. Joseph Mugweru, one of the affected riders, said his motorcycle was taken and later recovered under unclear circumstances.

Kariua claimed that some companies are misusing tracking devices installed on the motorcycles to repossess them unfairly, particularly when riders are nearing the end of their repayment period.

“Riders say trackers installed on the motorcycles are being used against them, especially when they are almost finishing repaying their loans,” Kariua said.

The operators further allege that some repossessions are carried out without the involvement of law enforcement officers. They have warned that they will resist any forceful seizures in the future.

“The owner of the company may not know what is happening, but some employees could be acting against boda boda operators. We will not allow this,” Kariua added.

Another rider, Peter Gitari, echoed the concerns, saying operators would not allow motorcycles to be taken by force again.

However, Kariua distinguished between lenders financing electric motorcycles and other loan providers. He said companies offering electric motorcycle loans tend to provide more flexible repayment plans and are more understanding compared to what he described as predatory lenders.

Although the matter has been reported to Wang’uru Police Station, the operators claim the alleged practices continue despite assurances.

The riders are now calling for fair treatment, transparency in repossession processes, and protection from what they term as exploitative lending practices.

“We want to do good business with them, but they have refused. We earn our daily bread through these motorcycles, yet they are not helping us,” Kariua said.

The allegations have left many operators frustrated and seeking intervention from authorities.