Boda-boda riders in Jinja City and the greater Jinja district are worried about their safety after recent attacks by machete-wielding thugs. In just three days, two cyclists have been killed. Rogers Kyatelekera, who worked at Almeca stage in Mafubira, and Saidi Bony, who operated at Ambercourt Market, lost their lives in these brutal attacks.
Eria Musobya, the chairperson of Boda Boda Cyclists in Jinja City, says that the rising insecurity is causing fear and disrupting their work. He pointed out that besides the fatalities, many riders have been injured and are living in constant fear. Musobya called for urgent intervention from security forces to address the situation.
“We are working under fear. Our colleagues are dying almost every day. We don’t know why these machete men are targeting us,” Musobya said.
The boda-boda community is urging authorities to take immediate action to ensure the safety of both cyclists and residents in Jinja.
“We call upon security operatives to take immediate actions. This is not only affecting our livelihoods but also putting our lives at risk,” Musobya emphasized, noting that even their motorcycles are being targeted.
Additionally, Patrick Golwoire, a scout-man, is recovering from head wounds at Jinja Main Hospital after being attacked by unknown individuals in Kaitabawala over the weekend. He was cut on the head with a machete.
SP James Mubi, the Kiira region police spokesperson, said that the police are conducting intensive patrols and have arrested 20 suspected motorcycle thieves in recent joint operations. Mubi advised cyclists to remain vigilant and suggested they install trackers on their motorcycles to help in case of theft.
“They should know when to start their work and when to stop. Those working at night should be registered for easy monitoring. There should be a central command center operating day and night for coordination and communication, especially in case of danger,” Mubi said.
He assured that intelligence gathering, arrest, and prosecution of offenders are ongoing. The police are also using CCTV cameras and other technological methods to track suspects.
