Authorities move in to tame crime in Kibra with bodaboda sticker system

Security officials in Kibra have introduced a sticker system; a new strategy that seeks to combat the rising cases of crime involving bodaboda operators within the informal settlement.

Kibra Deputy County Commissioner (DCC) Mohamed Abbas announced the firm measures aimed at restoring order within the sector.

“We want to bring sanity to the bodaboda industry,”Abbas stated. “All operators will be required to display identifiable stickers on their motorcycles. Each boda boda stage will have a unique, color-coded sticker indicating where a rider operates from.”

 This initiative follows numerous reports from residents indicating that some youth are now using motorcycles to commit robberies and swiftly escape before law enforcement can intervene.

According to Philip Maloba, a long-time resident of Kibra, the use of motorbikes in criminal activities has surged in recent months.

He recounted witnessing several incidents where young men snatch phones and handbags from pedestrians in busy areas, then quickly hop onto waiting bodabodas that disappear within seconds.

“They’ve been misusing bodabodas," Maloba explained. “Someone will grab your phone or bag, run off, and within moments, they’re on a motorcycle and gone. It’s extremely dangerous.”

This rapid escape mechanism facilitated by motorbikes has become a significant challenge for both residents and law enforcement agencies.

Kibra’s densely populated layout, narrow roads, and frequent congestion make it easy for suspects to slip away unnoticed, leaving victims helpless.

He emphasized that the stickers will serve as a means of identification and accountability. “For example, if you operate from Olympic, your sticker will be a different color from someone riding from Lindi or Gatwekera,” he explained.

Abbas also warned that any boda boda operator found without the official sticker will be considered a suspect and may face arrest.

“Boda boda is a vital livelihood for many youth and a crucial mode of transport in Kibera, especially given the poor road network that limits matatus,” he said. “However, the lack of regulation has allowed some individuals to misuse the sector for criminal purposes. We will not tolerate this.”

The sticker system is set to be rolled out in the coming weeks. The local administration will collaborate with boda boda associations and stage leaders to distribute the stickers, educate riders on compliance, and monitor adherence.

Success will depend heavily on the cooperation of riders and the community, who are encouraged to report suspicious activities.

Community leaders and local organizations have expressed their support for the initiative, urging bodaboda riders to embrace the new measures.

They emphasize that these steps are not only for the safety of the riders but also to enhance the overall security and reputation of Kibera.

Residents remain hopeful that the initiative will foster accountability within the sector, safeguard law-abiding riders, and reduce theft and insecurity in the area.