On January 30, 2026, anti-riot police were forced to use tear gas to disperse hundreds of boda boda riders in Eldoret City after protests over alleged harassment turned violent.
The standoff paralyzed business activities in the Central Business District (CBD) and along the major Uganda Highway.
The protests were sparked by an incident on January 29 where a motorcycle operator was reportedly beaten and seriously injured by Uasin Gishu County enforcement officers (kanjos).
Riders are decrying persistent intimidation and extortion by county officers, with some reporting that officers demand bribes even when riders produce valid county stickers.
Tension remains high as police continue to engage riders in running battles to clear barricaded roads.The operators have called for an immediate meeting with Uasin Gishu Governor Jonathan Bii to address the conduct of the enforcement teams.
This unrest follows recent warnings from matatu owners in Eldoret, who had threatened their own strike just two days prior, on January 28, citing rising attacks and insecurity involving the boda boda sector.
By Anthony Solly
