• The deputy IG said incidents where some characters masquerading as boda boda operators commit various crimes have been witnessed in the recent past.
• "I send a stern warning to such persons propagating unlawful activities, under the guise of boda boda operators," Kanja said.
Image: FILE
Police have identified criminals who have been masquerading as boda boda operators and snatching phones and handbags from pedestrians in Nairobi.
Deputy Inspector General of the Police Service Douglas Kanja said on Tuesday the criminal elements are on their radar and will be arrested soon.
"As law enforcement agencies, we have profiled these individuals, and in the coming few days we shall bring all of them to book," Kanaja said.
He spoke when he held a meeting with the national chairman of Bodaboda Safety Association of Kenya, Kelvin Mubadi and boda boda leaders from various subcounties in Nairobi.
The meeting was called to deliberate and improve police-boda boda operators’ partnership on the running and regulation of the sector.
The deputy IG said incidents where some characters masquerading as boda boda operators commit various crimes have been witnessed in the recent past.
These include incidents where the criminals grab items, including bags and phones, from pedestrians or rob other riders then use get-away motorcycles to escape.
"I send a stern warning to such persons propagating the unlawful activities, under the disguise of boda boda operators," Kanja said.
He urged genuine boda boda operators to be on the lookout and single out criminal elements amongst them who may attempt to taint the image of the sector.
The police boss also called on the sector leaders to sensitise their Association members on the importance of abiding by traffic rules.
He said the loss of life involving boda boda riders or any other road users has a ripple effect in society.
"You and I know; one life lost is one too many. The effect could be as grave as shutting the dreams of a young and totally innocent child, for good," he said.
"Even when one has the right of way, it matters to use common sense. We all have a duty to safeguard the sanctity of human life on our roads," he added.
Kanja assured the operators of police collaboration in supporting the boda boda sector and commended all law-abiding boda boda operators for the role they play in sustaining safety and security in their areas of operation.
"I commend you leaders for the strides you have made in managing the boda boda fraternity. The National Police Service looks forward to working closely with you, for the attainment of collective goals," he said.