Boda Boda riders raise alarm over rising theft in Kirinyaga County

Kirinyaga County Police Commander Nelson Taiti has assured Boda Boda operators in Kutus that security agencies are intensifying efforts to curb the rising cases of motorcycle theft in the area.

Taiti, who spoke on November 14, 2025, during a meeting with the Boda Boda fraternity in Kutus, heard riders express their growing frustration over the increasing theft of motorcycles, particularly during night hours.

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During the engagement, the riders, led by Kutus Boda Boda Chairman Patrick Waweru, raised concern that the growing demand for second-hand motorcycles partly fuels the surge in theft.

“The cost of new motorbikes has gone up, so many buyers prefer used ones. Unfortunately, this demand is creating a market for stolen motorcycles,” Waweru said.

He added that the county has numerous spare-part shops, some of which have previously been implicated in the sale of stolen components.

“Police have in the past recovered stolen parts from some shops. That tells us there is a chain of people benefitting from this crime,” he noted.

Waweru warned that organised groups may now be targeting Boda Boda operators and urged closer cooperation with law enforcement.

“We want police to strengthen information-sharing with us and respond quickly when incidents happen. Riders are living in fear,” he said.

Riders also appealed for increased night patrols and stronger collaboration with business premises equipped with CCTV cameras to support investigations.

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Two riders, Benson Mwangi and James Mithamo, narrated their experiences. Mwangi recalled how his motorcycle was stolen on the night of Tuesday, May 6, 2025, after he parked it outside his room upon arriving home late.

“I made sure the gate was locked, but by morning the bike was gone. It was shocking,” he said.

Mwangi contacted his service provider, who had installed a tracking device on the motorcycle. The bike was later traced to Meru and recovered at Mutuati Police Station after coordinated police efforts.

“I thank the officers who helped recover it. I urge fellow riders to secure their bikes and look out for one another,” he added.

Police commitment

In his address, County Commander Taiti affirmed police commitment to boosting security and urged riders to report cases immediately.

“We cannot act on cases we do not know about. Report thefts as soon as they happen so we can move fast,” Taiti said.

He also warned that some incidents may involve insider collaboration, calling for vigilance in parking areas and among the riders themselves.

“We suspect in a few cases someone close to the victims may be giving information to criminals. Be careful where and with whom you leave your motorcycle,” he said.

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Taiti encouraged all riders to join registered groups or SACCOs, saying organized structures strengthen accountability.

“When riders are in SACCOs, it becomes easier to verify identities and track suspicious individuals,” he said.

He also reminded operators to comply with safety and licensing requirements, noting that proper documentation helps distinguish genuine riders from imposters.

Taiti further assured riders that no case will be turned away based on boundaries.

“Whether you are in Kutus, Kianyaga, or any other subcounty, report to the nearest station. We will assist you,” he said.

The Commander cautioned riders against engaging in drug abuse or trafficking and urged them to maintain discipline as the festive season approaches.

“Your vigilance, road safety, and unity are key to your security. We are committed, but you too must stay alert,” he emphasized.