Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Uganda Monitor
Published on 2024-03-16 17:32:17
Boda boda riders in Kamuli municipality, Kamuli District, have been left reeling after a tragic incident where a young man, Shamil Mugere, was killed by suspected robbers who also made off with his father’s motorcycle. This heartbreaking incident has sent shockwaves through the community as they grapple with the rising cases of theft and violence targeting boda boda operators in the area.
Shamil, who was in his early 20s, was asked by his father, James Mugere, to run some errands on that fateful day. Tragically, he was last seen alive selling chips near his father’s boda stage between 7:30pm and 8pm. The father had specifically instructed Shamil not to carry any passengers on the motorcycle, as he was not a trained boda rider. This caution stemmed from the alarming trend of motorcycle thefts in the area, which had already claimed the lives of at least seven operators prior to Shamil’s death.
The boda boda riders in Kamuli municipality have raised concerns about the stolen motorcycles equipped with trackers that mysteriously go missing after being stolen. This has led to speculation that the thieves may have insider knowledge, possibly former employees of the motorcycle financing companies. Companies like Tugende, Watu Credit, Asaak, and Mogo are among those licensed to offer motorcycle financing to boda boda riders in the area. While the Business Development Manager at Watu Credit refuted the allegations, stating that they work closely with authorities to ensure the safety of their clients, efforts to obtain comments from other financing firms were unsuccessful.
The chairperson of Labour boda boda stage, Mr. Swaibu Kitimbo, highlighted the challenges faced by operators due to thefts and banditry even during daylight hours. The secretary, Mr. Alex Mawerere, described how the perpetrators target vulnerable riders and lure them to isolated locations before striking. Mr. Ibrahim Mawalo added that potential thieves often scout the area for days before executing their crime.
In response to the escalating security concerns, the Kamuli Resident District Commissioner, Ms. Rose Birungi, advised boda boda riders to finish work early to avoid being targeted by criminals. She noted that intelligence-led operations had led to the arrest of over 20 suspects, who are currently in custody awaiting trial.
The tragic death of Shamil Mugere has underscored the need for increased security measures and vigilance among boda boda riders in Kamuli municipality. The community is calling for collaborative efforts between authorities, financing companies, and riders to combat the escalating theft and violence plaguing the industry. It is a sobering reminder of the dangers faced by those who rely on motorcycles for their livelihood in a region fraught with security challenges.
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