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Mbarara Boda Boda Riders Struggle with Rising Insecurity

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Mbarara Boda Boda Riders Struggle with Rising Insecurity
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In Mbarara City, boda boda riders are grappling with escalating insecurity following a sharp rise in motorcycle thefts and fatalities.

Between January and June 2024, 182 motorcycles were stolen in the Rwizi Region, according to Samson Kasasira, the region’s police spokesperson. Of these, only 48 have been recovered, while one of two robbery cases remains unresolved.

The situation is particularly dire in Mbarara City South Division, home to over 35,000 registered boda boda riders. Lauben Turyahabwe, the division’s boda boda chairperson, reported over 100 theft cases and 13 deaths among riders since October 2024.

“There have been about 110 cases where motorcycles were stolen without causing loss of life, while 13 cases resulted in deaths,” said Turyahabwe.

Thieves often employ violent tactics, using tools like hammers, pangas, knives, and ropes to carry motorcycles away from enclosed areas.

“Most of the killers remain unidentified. In some cases, when we catch them and report them to the police, they are released after a few days, which only increases theft cases,” he added.

Riders like Brian Nabasa from Kakoba Alliance Stage have experienced the devastating impact of these crimes. Nabasa recounted the theft of his motorcycle, UGB 726/A, which left him jobless.

“I thank God my life was spared, even though my motorcycle was stolen. I believe three men were involved in the act. We didn’t hear anything during the night, but in the morning, we found wires discarded in the garden near our gate,” he said.

The boda boda leadership is calling on the government to intervene by reducing taxes and motorcycle prices, which have risen from Shs 5 million to Shs 6 million shillings.

“Boda boda operations have provided employment for many people, so we urge the government to reduce the cost of importing motorcycles into the country,” urged Turyahabwe.

Police in the Rwizi Region revealed that stolen motorcycles are often dismantled and sold as spare parts, further complicating recovery efforts. Kasasira advised riders and communities to adopt tracking devices for motorcycles and remain vigilant.

“We need to take precautions because there are devices that these boda boda riders can implant in their motorcycles to keep tracking them where they are. Communities should remain vigilant because these motorcycles are stolen and they are sold as spare parts,” noted Kasasira.

As thefts persist, boda boda riders in Mbarara City remain on high alert, navigating the dual challenges of sustaining their livelihoods and protecting their lives.

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