A shocking wave of fear and frustration has gripped the Boda Boda community in Aroso as prison officers, armed and emboldened, are accused of muscling into the local boda boda business, threatening livelihoods and lives.
In a heart-wrenching outcry, operators led by Saitoti Jabuya, Felix Joma, and others have exposed a reign of terror allegedly orchestrated by government-employed prison wardens.
For over a decade, Aroso’s boda boda riders have worked peacefully, serving their community by transporting customers.
But their world turned upside down when prison officers from Migori prison command, wielding their authority and weapons, reportedly set up a rival boda boda stage, declaring it their own.
“They say this is their stage, even before I was born this stage was here. I wonder how they suddenly claim its theirs” Jabuya fumed, alleging that the officers are not only stealing their customers.
The situation has escalated into violence and intimidation.
Operators report being beaten, threatened with death, and harassed by armed prison officers.
One operator, Joseph Elvis, recounted a chilling encounter: “They caught me, wanted to beat me up. They’re armed, trained they can do anything!”
Another member, George Ondeyo, revealed that the officers have sent death threats, with a hit list targeting the operators.
“They are our enemies,” he declared, emphasizing the fear of being targeted by those meant to uphold the law.
Despite reporting the issue to local police, village elders, and the county commander, the operators say their pleas have gone unanswered.
“Three weeks, and no one has called us!” Ondeyo lamented.
The community is now begging Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen and President William Ruto to intervene, demanding the transfer of these officers to restore peace.
“If there’s no work, they come and beat us up!” cried Benjamin, a community leader, warning that lives are at stake.
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