A Nairobi-based DCI officer is in custody after fatally shooting two Boda Boda riders early on the morning of September 7 in Thika, Kiambu County, following a road accident that quickly escalated into violence.

According to police reports, the officer, who was believed to be under the influence of alcohol, rammed into a motorcycle in the Makongeni area, injuring the rider and a passenger.

As tensions rose, a confrontation broke out between the detective and a group of Boda Boda operators attempting to address the incident.

During the altercation, the detective opened fire, killing two riders on the scene. The violent response sparked outrage among witnesses and fellow operators, who retaliated by setting the officer’s Audi vehicle ablaze.

Thika West Sub-County Police Commander Lawrence Muchangi confirmed the incident, stating that the DCI officer, who appeared intoxicated at the time of arrest, has been disarmed and placed in police custody at Thika Police Station.

His firearm was seized by officers from Makongeni Police Station as evidence.

Dramatic images and videos from the site showed the luxury vehicle engulfed in flames, thick black smoke rising as onlookers gathered in shock.

The bodies of the victims have been transferred to General Kago Mortuary, while the charred remains of the vehicle are being held at Makongeni Police Station.

This incident adds to a growing trend of violent clashes involving Boda Boda riders.

Just a day earlier in Luanda, Vihiga County, a matatu was torched by angry residents after it struck and killed a Boda Boda rider.

Last week, a Super Metro bus was set on fire along the Thika Superhighway following a fatal crash involving another rider.

Authorities have yet to release the identities of the deceased as investigations continue.

The Boda Boda Safety Association of Kenya (BAK) had earlier issued a condemnation of recent violent incidents involving motorcycle taxi operators.

In a statement released September 7, BAK said it was “deeply concerned” by reports of vehicles being attacked and set ablaze after traffic accidents, incidents allegedly involving individuals posing as boda boda operators.

“These acts of violence do not represent the values, principles, or conduct of genuine boda boda operators,” said Kevin B. Mubadi, national executive chairman and president of BAK. “We are committed to peace, safety, and lawful conduct.”

The association, which represents commercial motorcycle riders across all 47 counties in Kenya, said criminal-minded individuals, many of whom are not registered riders, have infiltrated the sector and contributed to lawlessness on the roads.

“The boda boda industry remains a pillar of Kenya’s transport system and a source of livelihood for thousands of families,” Mubadi said. “We will not allow a few misguided individuals to soil the reputation of our sector.”

The association called on all riders to uphold discipline and continue being responsible players in the country’s transport industry.

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