After a week of tension, boda boda riders at Turbo trading centre on the boundary between Uasin Gishu and Kakamega counties finally resorted to peace and harmony.
This was the outcome from a Baraza convened by top security officials from Eldoret West led by Turbo Sub County Deputy County Commissioner, Mr. John Kinjo.
The meeting, which brought together hundreds of boda boda riders who operate within Turbo market and its adjacent villages from both counties, was held at Tapsagoi chief’s camp in Turbo.
Leaders representing both camps aired their grievances, ranging from constant harassment to theft of motorcycles, with both camps accusing each other of the vices.
On Tuesday, boda boda operators from the Kalenjin community disrupted transport and communication activity along the busy Eldoret-Malaba highway following the brutal murder of one of their colleagues, Kevin Kiptanui, 22 years, while in the line of duty.
The irate riders barricaded the busy highway Turbo market in protest over what they claimed was increasing spate of theft, accusing their counterparts from Luhya community in Lugari Sub County for allegedly hiding suspected criminals.
However, swift intervention by Eldoret West Deputy Officer Commanding Police Station (D/OCPD), Mr. John Achia and Turbo Assistant County Commissioner (ACC), Mr. Michael Angayo restored sanity.
But addressing the gathering, Kinjo warned the operators that their actions were a recipe for trans-border clashes similar to the ones witnessed in 1992 and 2007/2008 post-election violence.
“We don’t want to take this country back to where it was in 2008,” said Kinjo who urged the operators to instead seek legal redress through various security organs whenever they felt aggrieved.
The DCC warned them against barricading the busy road that connects many international countries.
“Desist from directing your anger to wrong targets,” warned Kinjo.
He encouraged the boda boda riders to exploit modern platforms of communication, especially WhatsApp, in order to enhance individual safety.
“Form your own WhatsApp group where each member can post regular updates detailing the various destinations headed to with passengers,” said Kinjo, adding such would enable security agencies combat kidnap incidents whenever they occurred.
He assured members of public security teams, involving all organs, from both Uasin Gishu and Kakamega Counties will jointly investigate all crime related claims raised by the motorists.
Kinjo reiterated the government’s recognition of the role played by the boda boda industry, especially in the creation of employment opportunities as well as boosting sources of livelihood among the youth.
After the lengthy deliberations, the riders agreed to bury the simmering animosity between them and resolved to work as a unit in order to enhance and promote the security of the region.
Mautuma ward Member of County Assembly (MCA), Josphat Wasilwa and his Tapsagoi ward, Mr. Caroli Mutai were among leaders who attended and addresed the meeting.