The National Police Service (NPS) has linked the recent surge in the torching of Public Service Vehicles (PSVs) to criminal elements infiltrating protests, distancing boda boda riders from blanket blame over the attacks.
Speaking on Monday, February 2, Senior Superintendent of Police Boniface Otieno said investigations have revealed that organised criminals often take advantage of demonstrations and unrest to carry out the destructive acts.
“I want to make it clear that it is not always boda boda riders,” Otieno stated. “Our investigations have revealed, in many instances, that other criminals with bad intentions infiltrate these situations and take advantage.”
Otieno dismissed claims of inaction by the government and the police, insisting that investigations are ongoing and arrests have already been made. He noted that the NPS has taken significant steps to address the matter, contrary to public perception.
“It is not true that there is inaction by the police or the government as has been alleged. From where the National Police Service is sitting, a lot has been done. Investigations are ongoing,” he said.
The police boss confirmed that three suspects have already been arrested in connection with the torching of a vehicle in Pangani about a week ago. He encouraged members of the public seeking updates on such cases to visit their nearest police stations for information on the progress of investigations.
His remarks come amid heightened tension in the public transport sector, following a strike by matatu operators protesting the destruction of their vehicles. According to the Federation of Public Transport Sector Chief Executive Officer, Kushian Muchiri, more than 21 vehicles have been torched over the past three months, raising serious concerns among operators and commuters alike.
The spate of attacks has intensified calls for enhanced security measures to protect public transport operators and restore confidence in the sector.
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