A section of bodaboda operators at Tigoni in Limuru sub county have decried cases of harassment from police and council askaris and want the Kiambu county commissioner Alex Nkoyo to intervene.
The bodaboda riders allege that they are being harassed by some police officers and county askaris over parking areas and hours of conducting business.
Speaking at Tigoni on Wednesday, the riders said that their businesses are crumbling because of the harassment.
“Sometimes we are forced to part with bribes in order to operate in certain areas within Tigoni town,” said a bodaboda rider who sought to remain anonymous for fear of intimidation.
He said that bodaboda operators are not allowed to park in some areas and can only do so if they part with ‘something’.
The rider further alleged that their operation hours are being limited to 7pm a move they say has affected their business.
“We are allowed to operate not beyond 7 PM in the evening and those who are found operating beyond the hours are harassed and forced to give bribes,” he alleged.
The bodaboda riders now want the Kiambu commissioner to intervene over the matter saying that their business is being affected.
They also want the Kiambu government to construct parking bays for them for smooth business operations.
Reacting to the concerns of the bodaboda riders, Limuru OCPD said that he is not aware of such harassment and asked the operators to report such cases to the police for investigations.
Mohammed Bakuli said investigations will be done to establish the truth of the matter. He urged bodaboda operators to work with the police and report any cases of harassment.
He however cautioned bodaboda riders against taking part or aiding criminal acts. He also asked the riders to adhere to traffic regulations especially this festive season.