Police re-activate operation against errant boda boda

By Sarah Nakamwa

Motorcyclists who flout traffic laws in Kampala Metropolitan area face arrest following police’s re-activation of the operation against boda boda riders.

Police spokesperson, Fred Enanga, Monday said the operation had been halted during the Martyrs' Day celebrations, but has resumed to curb road accidents.

“During the operation, riding on one ways, making U-turns on the road and violation of traffic lights will be checked on both bodaboda and motor drivers,” said Enanga, who was addressing a weekly press briefing at police headquarters in Naguru.

“Folded and numberless number plates, dangerous loading with a bodaboda carrying more than 50kg and more than one passenger will all be cases to handle during the operation,” added Enanga.

He explained that during the period when the operation had been suspended, motorists and cyclists grossly abused traffic regulations.

Enanga said police are happy that in Kampala and neighboring districts, motorcyclists have embraced the wearing of crash helmets, but urged passengers to follow suit.

Isa Yiga, a boda boda operator in Kampala, told New Vision that most passengers resist sharing helmets provided by motorcyclists because of fear of contracting skin diseases.

“Crash helmets protect the head from injuries in case of an accident. Passengers should be encouraged to carry their own if they can’t use the ones provided by the boda boda riders,” said Yiga.

Enanga urged motorists and bodaboda riders to carry their driving permits, and asked those without to approach traffic officers for help on how to access them.