Researchers have recently compiled the Boda Boda Motorcycle Transport and Security Challenges in Kenya with reports indicating that there is no doubt that criminals using motorcycles are an evolving threat to security.
The report states that whereas
Despite recent reports that crime is decreasing, violent crime in Kenya is a “ticking time bomb” that will explode in the next few years as the number of teenagers soars, and many opting to the boda-boda business for their daily upkeep.
The damning new report has laid bare the criminal activities of the boda boda riders, terming the trend a disaster in waiting.
The National Crime Research Centre (NCRC) says boda boda riders have become part of a new wave of street crime in urban and rural areas and take part in both petty and major violent crimes such as murder, smuggling contraband and illegal goods, rape as well as drug trafficking.
NCRC, a government agency, indicates that the riders are not only being used to perpetuate crime but are also used to provide getaways for criminals from crime scenes.
The trend has caused alarm within security agencies, as the gangsters use the fast and manoeuvrable motorcycles to escape from crime scenes.
“Gangsters on motorbikes” has now become a common element of accounts of crime incidents in Nairobi and other towns, with businesses such as fuel stations and retail outlets being the main targets.
“Gangsters riding on motorbikes are of particular concern because it is easier for them to escape (from crime scenes). For instance in Nairobi where most roads experience heavy traffic, thugs on motorbikes are able to escape by making use of narrow spaces between vehicles,” said Mr Koome.
Pursuing a gang on a motorbike is a big challenge for policemen using a car. This is because motorbikes are easy to manoeuvre through back lanes and alleys, which are too narrow for vehicles.
Another challenge lies in identifying the thugs whenever they are arrested.
“It is tricky for victims to identify the perpetrators when they are later arrested. This is because riders wear helmets, meaning their faces are covered and they cannot be identified,” he adds.
Besides easy mobility, gangsters also prefer motorcycles because unlike vehicles, they are easy to acquire as they are cheap.
This was not the case until five years ago when the government waived duty on new motorcycles and their spare parts, causing an influx of new units. It is now possible to own a functional machine for as little as Sh30,000.