24 remanded over Boda Boda riot in Lira
The suspects, alleged to have played leading roles in the demonstration that paralysed traffic along the Lira–Soroti Highway, appeared before court on charged with inciting violence and malicious damage to property.
24 remanded over Boda Boda riot in Lira
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Twenty-four youths accused of participating in Monday’s (June 15) violent boda boda protest in Lira City have been remanded to prison.
The suspects, alleged to have played leading roles in the demonstration that paralysed traffic along the Lira–Soroti Highway, appeared before court on charged with inciting violence and malicious damage to property.
Appearing before Magistrates Court on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, all the accused denied the charges.
They are also accused of damaging a police patrol vehicle during the unrest.
Two juveniles aged 14 and 17 were also presented before court and later returned to police custody pending further handling under juvenile justice procedures.
Magistrate Jane Tibagonzeka remanded all the accused to Lira Main Prison until June 30, when they are expected to reappear before the trial magistrate and may apply for bail.
Dozens who had turned up hoping for the release of their friends and relatives left court disappointed after the remand order.
The arrests stem from the June 15th protest that brought traffic and business activities to a standstill along the busy Lira–Soroti Highway.
Police say the demonstration erupted after city law enforcement officers impounded motorcycles belonging to riders accused of failing to pay city taxes.
Security forces later dispersed the crowd using tear gas and warning shots before restoring order.
Meanwhile, enforcement operations against boda boda riders have been temporarily suspended as investigations continue into complaints raised by operators over revenue collection.