Boda boda operators from Kisii town recorded mixed fortunes on Friday following a riot by Gusii Institute of Technology students, who went rampant after a tragic road carnage that had claimed lives of two students on Thursday evening.
As the police engaged disorderly students, boda boda operators took the advantage and ferried people to and fro town since students from the institution had blockaded Kisii-Keroka and Kisii-Kilgoris roads.
Many commuters said they were forced to part with a fixed rate of Sh100 in a distance that they are charged only Sh30 on a normal day.
“As passengers, we have been exploited since morning. They are charging us exorbitantly without even sparing us. It is improper for someone to take advantage of an incident like this to over-charge innocent people,” said Stephen Ondieki, a commuter.
However, the fiasco changed tune as angry students started “taxing” motorbike operators at least Sh200 and beating up those who failed to comply with their rule.
“They have become very arrogant and are asking Sh200 before allowing us to ferry passengers to town. I have seen a few colleagues of mine who have sustained minor injuries after being beaten by these students,” said Erick Nyamora, a motorbike operator.
The situation was combated in the late afternoon after the Kisii police got reinforcement from Chepilat-based GSU officers.
“It has been a tough day and somehow we have managed to combat the situation. Four of our officers have sustained serious injuries and are admitted at Kisii referral [hospital],” OCPD Tom Mutisya said.