Matatu operators protest over rising insecurity at Eldoret terminus

Matatu operators protesting in Eldoret. MATHEWS NDANYI

Matatu operators in Eldoret on Monday stormed the town centre to protest rising insecurity following frequent attacks by criminal gangs operating near the Shakahola matatu stage.

The angry operators, including drivers, touts, vehicle owners, and Sacco officials, marched to the stage demanding an audience with senior police officers over what they termed as persistent insecurity that has left several of their colleagues injured and robbed.

The protest followed a series of violent clashes between matatu crews and gangs said to be operating from makeshift shelters near River Sosiani, close to the terminus.

The stage, located on the outskirts of the city, has become a hotspot for crime in recent months.

Led by Sacco officials Moses Kamau and David Kariuki, the protesters said the gangs often target matatu staff collecting fares late in the evening. They claimed that more than a dozen operators have been attacked in recent weeks.

“One of our female passengers was assaulted and raped by the gangs,” Kamau said.

“We are tired of the insecurity at the Shakahola stage. That is why we have decided to take to the streets — we want action from the authorities.”

Kamau added that the stage, created two years ago to help decongest the Eldoret Central Business District during the Devolution Conference, had since turned into a dangerous zone.

 “Many of our drivers and conductors have been robbed of their daily collections. We can’t continue working in fear every day,” he said.

Over 300 matatus, mainly operating along the Langas route, use the Shakahola terminus daily.

Operators said insecurity has forced some of them to relocate or reduce operations, causing huge financial losses.

The protestors were later addressed by Turbo OCPD Patrick Wekesa, who assured them that their concerns would be acted upon immediately.

“Since you have officially reported the matter, we will take swift action and meet with matatu operators and county officials to resolve the issue,” Wekesa said.

Uasin Gishu County Police Commander Benjamin Mwanthi also confirmed that additional officers had been deployed to restore order.

“I have directed that 30 police officers be stationed at the Shakahola terminus to maintain security. They will remain there until we eliminate the gangs terrorizing residents and matatu crews,” Mwanthi said.

The operators, while welcoming the assurance, vowed to resume protests if the situation does not improve within the coming week.

“We just want to work in peace,” Kariuki said.

 “Our lives and those of our passengers matter.”