Fresh findings from the Interior Ministry have revealed deep security concerns within the boda boda sector, pointing to a pattern of criminal activity that has taken root in different parts of the country.
The report, made public on Tuesday by Interior CS Kipchumba Murkomen at State House, shows how the rapid expansion of the sector has outpaced regulation, creating gaps that criminals have used to hide and operate.
According to the Jukwaa la Usalama Report, boda bodas have become a lifeline for many communities, but weak oversight has led to confusion, growing lawlessness and rising safety fears.
The review notes that many riders operate without registration or proper identification, allowing offenders to blend in with genuine operators.
The study highlights several counties where cases involving riders have become common. These include Kisii, Kakamega, Vihiga, Siaya, Kisumu, Busia, Bungoma, Trans Nzoia, Migori, Kiambu and Nairobi.
In these areas, the report says criminals have taken advantage of unregulated groups to carry out robberies, move stolen items or get involved in political disruptions. It adds that some of the groups have grown into loose networks that scare residents or protect criminals from being caught.
Even as the review raises alarm, it acknowledges that many structured boda boda associations continue to support security teams by sharing timely information.
Still, the forums held between April 7 and October 2, 2025, uncovered serious cases, particularly in Kisii, where riders were linked to a gang believed to be working with political figures.
The report notes that, “The gang operates an illegal detention centre used for torturing rival boda boda groups and political rivals. They also run an extortion ring and commit murder.”
Border counties also featured strongly. The report says some riders in Busia often get drawn into cross-border activity involving nationals from both countries. In Busia and Kakamega, operators were found to be involved in moving illicit brews and contraband from Uganda.
In Nairobi, the situation mirrors challenges in other regions. Riders have been associated with breaking traffic rules, acts of violence and theft.
The report states that, “Across several counties, boda boda operators have been both enablers of community policing and participants in criminal activities.”
To address these issues, the review outlines ongoing work between the National Transport and Safety Authority and county administrations. The plan requires all riders to join SACCOs and operate in set areas to help bring order and improve accountability.
SACCO officials will also be expected to keep track of their members and alert authorities if anyone is involved in wrongdoing.
The ministry further notes that steps are being taken to bring SACCO leaders into community policing teams to help them support security work and share intelligence more easily.
Additionally, modalities are being explored to incorporate SACCO leaders into community policing to enhance responsibility and facilitate intelligence gathering.
The report warns that those posing as riders to commit crime will be arrested, saying this will help protect the public and prevent further damage to the sector’s image.
The Jukwaa la Usalama findings form part of a larger national effort to improve safety and public services through broad community involvement.
