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Boda-boda riders to undergo refresher courses after rape incident in Jinja

Jinja, (UG):- Police in the Kiira region have pledged to organize refresher courses for boda boda cyclists in Jinja city and Jinja district to reinforce safety and security measures for both customers and riders.

The development comes against the backdrop of a recent criminal incident involving one Michael Acidri alais Azabo, a 29-year-old boda boda rider who allegedly raped his customer on Sunday night.

The victim, (whose details we’ve held for sensitivity of the case), had hired Azabo to transport her from Magamaga town council in Mayuge district to Bugembe in Jinja city when he turned violent against her along the way and forced her into a sexual act.

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“The boda boda rider identified as Michael Acidri, commonly known as Azabo, allegedly raped a customer on January 12 at around 11 p.m. The victim had boarded his motorcycle from Magamaga town council en route to Bugembe in Jinja city for an agreed fare of three thousand shillings,” Kiira regional police spokesperson, SP James Mubi said.

“Upon reaching Kakira roundabout (where fish is sold), the rider changed direction and proceeded to a swampy area on the left side of the road. This prompted the victim to appeal for help by making a loud noise and grabbing the rider’s jacket. They fell down, and the culprit dragged the victim to a swamp and allegedly raped her,” he added.

Mubi said the officers who were on duty intensely patrolling the highway using the Integrated highway patrol vehicle together with support from the security guards belonging to Industrial Security Services (ISS) of Madhvani, caught the suspect red-handed and rescued the victim.

The victim was later taken to a health center for medical treatment and the suspect was subjected to medical examination and it was later established that he is of sound mind.

In light of this incident and other traumatizing and unlawful incidents surrounding the boda boda industry in Jinja city and Jinja district, authorities have resolved to organize refresher courses focusing on various safety, ethical practices and security of boda boda cyclists and their customers.

“Under the command and guidance of the RPC Kiira, SSP Charles Nsaba, together with the leadership of the boda boda industry in Jinja city and Jinja district, training refresher courses will be organized for all boda boda riders,” Mubi assured.

The training, he said, will cover modules on customer service, road safety, self-discipline, and the dangers of engaging in criminal activities such as rape, defilement, and robbery. Additional topics include human rights, patriotism, and socio-economic transformation.

The Kiira regional police command has intensified efforts to combat sexual and gender-based violence against women and children, alongside addressing other crimes such as theft and robbery.

According to the Kiira region’s 2025 annual policing plan, significant progress has been made in addressing domestic violence and child abuse cases, with 70% of child abuse-related offences reportedly resolved.

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