Kampala, Uganda | By Michael Wandati | Security agencies have issued a stern warning to boda boda riders to remain vigilant during night duties, as cases of robberies and attacks continue to surge in the Kampala metropolitan area and other regions across the country.
This caution comes in the wake of the Directorate of Crime Intelligence (DCI), in collaboration with the Flying Squad and general-duty police officers, successfully arresting eight individuals suspected of involvement in motorcycle robberies.
A recent report on motorcycle-related crimes in Kampala and areas, particularly in Busoga, reveals a disturbing trend where robbers target boda boda riders, especially those using less-traveled access routes and rural paths, predominantly during the nighttime. Shockingly, some of these attacks have occurred even in broad daylight, with several riders falling victim to fatal assaults.
Among the boda boda riders who tragically lost their lives in the Kampala metropolitan and Busoga regions are Moses Kiranga, Ben Wavamuno, and John Musinguzi. DCI and the Flying Squad, after meticulously tracking the movement patterns of these criminals, launched operations to apprehend them, resulting in a significant number of arrests primarily made in the Busoga sub-region.
One incident detailed in the report recounts how Kiranga was fatally attacked while ferrying Samuel Isabirye, who sustained life-threatening injuries. The report states, “Wavamuno Ben was hit to death carrying his brother, Mumpya Mesach, on motorcycle registration number UFR 907Y. The brother ran to a nearby farm and was taken to Kasokwe police post. The body of the victim was recovered with a deep wound on the forehead.”
Furthermore, security agencies indicate that a successful operation in Irundu Trading Centre led to the recovery of five stolen motorcycles, including TVS Star UDD 154C, UDG 819W Star, and registration plates UDJ 003D and UDF 788N.
The report also reveals that Nfaki David, a resident of the area, divulged the identities of his accomplices, which included Kenneth Lubega, Yusuf Kitimbo, Isma Dolio, and Solomon Nfaki. This quartet was found in possession of three motorcycle number plates, including UAR 606C and UAR 897C.
Police spokesperson Fred Enanga has issued a cautionary statement to boda boda riders, urging them to exercise prudence when determining their routes and to avoid poorly lit and secluded pathways, particularly during nighttime operations.
Read Also: Boda boda riders conned millions of shillings in motorcycle loan scam
Riders have also been advised against accepting clients who request transport to distant and remote areas away from the main roads during nighttime hours.
“As we prepare to charge the eight suspects in Court, we continue to warn boda boda riders about the increasing danger of nighttime road ambushes by criminal gangs targeting them. The apprehension of these suspects demonstrates our unwavering commitment to combat and counter the criminal elements responsible for boda boda attacks, robberies, and murders,” stated Enanga.
In total, DCI and the Flying Squad have successfully recovered seven suspected stolen motorcycles and a collection of dismantled spare parts. Enanga emphasized that Flying Squad units have been deployed across various regions to apprehend all suspected motorcycle robbers, ensuring the safety of boda boda riders and the broader community.
