Some of the matatu operators during protest at Eldoret police station./MATHEWS NDANYIThe matatu owners, touts, drivers and Saccos' officials stormed the station demanding an audience with police bosses.
The protest followed frequent violent clashes between the operators and gangs at Shakahola matatu stage located next to an area inhabited by streets families near the Sosiani River.
Saccos' officials and stage managers, led by Moses Kamau and David Kariuki, said many of their colleagues had been robbed and injured by the gangs.
A female passenger was attacked and raped by the gangs.
“We are tired of the insecurity at the Shakahola stage and that is why we have decided to protest so that our cry is heard,” Kamau said.
He said it was impossible for them to operate at the stage, which was created two years ago to decongest the city during the devolution conference hosted in the city.
Kamau said many drivers and touts had been frequently robbed of their daily collections, causing them to incur heavy losses.
The protesters were addressed by Turbo OCPD Patrick Wekesa, who said they would meet with the matatu operators and Uasin Gishu county officials to discuss the matter.
“Since you have brought the complaint, we will take action immediately and resolve the issue,” he said.
Wekesa assured the matatu operators the security situation would be improved so they operate in a safe environment.
Uasin Gishu county police commander Benjamin Mwanthi said he had directed that 30 police officers be deployed at the stage to maintain security.
“The security teams will remain at the terminus until they restore security by dealing with the gangs in the area,” he said.
