Iganga, Uganda: Police in Iganga District have impounded at least 65 motorcycles in a night patrol operation targeting criminal gangs operating within the boda boda sector.
The intelligence-led operation, conducted on Thursday night, focused on major boda boda stages across Iganga Municipality as security intensified efforts to curb rising cases of violent robberies and killings of riders.
Busoga East Police spokesperson ASP Michael Kasadha confirmed the development, saying the operation is part of ongoing efforts to dismantle criminal networks exploiting the boda boda industry.
“The operation was aimed at putting things right after allegations of criminal elements operating in the boda boda sector. We impounded 65 motorcycles and have started screening. Owners are required to present proof of ownership,” Kasadha said.
Police say the crackdown follows a surge in incidents where criminals posing as boda boda riders attack colleagues and passengers, often killing riders before stealing their motorcycles.
Kasadha noted that many of the perpetrators infiltrate stages as strangers, making it difficult to identify them without proper records. “We understand that criminal elements killing riders and taking their bikes come from stages when they are strangers. Genuine cyclists should be known and properly registered,” he said.
He added that boda boda leaders in the municipality are aware of the ongoing operations and have been working with security agencies to restore order.
Police, however, dismissed circulating reports suggesting a curfew on boda boda operations, clarifying that no such directive exists. “There is no order that boda boda riders should stop working by 6 pm. There is no cause for panic. These operations are meant to ensure safety for everyone,” Kasadha said.
He emphasised that the crackdown is aimed at creating a safer working environment for riders and protecting passengers.
Despite the operation’s objectives, some members of the public have raised concerns about alleged misconduct by security personnel, claiming that some riders were assaulted even after presenting valid documents.
Kasadha urged affected individuals to formally report such incidents, stressing that police operations are guided by professionalism and discipline. “Any conduct that goes against our standards is an individual officer’s action and is punishable by law without compromise,” he said.
The operation comes amid growing concern over the safety of boda boda riders in Iganga, with several cases reported where riders are attacked and killed, particularly in suburban areas during night hours.
Authorities say the ongoing operations will continue as part of broader efforts to identify criminal elements, recover stolen motorcycles, and restore confidence within the boda boda sector.
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