Police Warn Boda Users as Criminal Gangs Step Up Attacks in Kampala

What the report says

Police in Kampala have warned boda boda riders and passengers to stay alert after reporting an increase in criminal gangs targeting motorcycle users, especially at night and in the early morning. The warning, reported by Nile Post, comes as security agencies and industry leaders try to address robberies and assaults linked to the sector across the Kampala Metropolitan area.

Kampala Metropolitan Deputy Police Spokesperson Luke Owoyesigyire said police have arrested 20 suspects this year in connection with gangs accused of attacking boda boda users, and he said investigations into other organised groups are still ongoing. Police say some suspects pose as passengers before robbing or assaulting riders, while others use motorcycles to target members of the public. The article notes that tensions have grown as riders and passengers increasingly accuse one another of aiding criminals.

Boda Union Chairperson Frank Mawejje said many offenders are not genuine riders but criminals using motorcycles as a cover. He said boda associations are updating rider registers to help identify legitimate operators and remove infiltrators. Mawejje also suggested that some attacks may follow leaks of information about customers withdrawing large sums of money, though this was presented as his allegation rather than a confirmed finding.

Kampala Central Mayor Salim Uhuru and Rubaga Division Mayor Zacky Mberaze Mawula blamed political interference for undermining earlier efforts to regulate the industry. More broadly, boda bodas remain a key transport option in Greater Kampala despite persistent congestion, which helps explain why security concerns around the sector draw wide public attention.