Boda boda riders suspended in Kagumo over criminal links

According to Patrick Gatimu, chairman of the Kirinyaga Central sub-county boda boda association, the decision to suspend the riders followed repeated accusations that they were colluding with criminals in Kagumo town and surrounding areas.

“Over 400 boda boda operators in Kagumo provide legitimate transport services, but these seven have been linked directly to criminal acts. They have even formed groups that intimidate other riders and local traders,” Gatimu said.

Phillip Wachira, a boda boda official, added that the rogue operators’ activities have created an unsafe environment. “They have harassed traders and riders alike. Recently, during one of our meetings, they forced us to end it prematurely, claiming they had a lot of work,” he said on Tuesday.

Wachira further alleged that the criminals’ influence has extended into law enforcement. “When the matter is reported at Kagumo police station, no action is taken unless the Officer Commanding Station (OCS) is present. Otherwise, officers tell traders and operators to ‘negotiate’ with the criminals. How can we negotiate with criminals?” he questioned.

The suspension follows reports of violent attacks on traders. Gatimu and Wachira noted that at least two traders had been assaulted, with their teeth removed, yet no arrests had been made.

OCS Julius Kiplimo later attended a meeting with boda boda operators, urging them to collaborate with the police to improve security in the area. He said a follow-up security meeting would be held soon, although recruitment activities delayed the scheduled session.