Operations in Mombasa Central Business District (CBD) was on Wednesday paralysed following protests by Tuk tuk operators against harassment by city officers.
The operators through the Tuk-tuk Owners and Drivers Association Chairman Mr Obedi Muruli claimed that the City Inspectorate were extorting money from the drivers.
The morning demonstration was however stopped by county askaris who dispersed the operators who were heading towards County Assembly buildings.
Mr Muruli who condemned the officers for arresting the operators said they were holding a peaceful demonstration.
He said they were heading to the County Assembly buildings to submit a letter in which they demand to know why part of Digo Road which is used as a stage by Tuk tuk drivers was closed without consulting them on the issue.
“The demonstration was peaceful all the way from Mama Ngina drive until the officers intervened and attacked us near Huduma Centre,” Muruli said.
Mr Muruli who was speaking to journalists in Mombasa town claimed that the officers are colluding with tow truck owners to tow the Tuk Tuks then charge excessive fees.
The operators further claimed that the county officers were using excessive force when arresting Tuk Tuk drivers.
“They arrest the drivers then demand for a bribe. If you don’t part with some money they come up with more charges then take you to court where you end up paying a lot of money,” added Mr Muruli.