By Baraka John
Commercial motorcycle riders, commonly known as boda boda operators, suspended their operations in Yambio on Monday to pray for a colleague who has been missing since May 30.
The riders gathered in solidarity and grief, using the occasion to call on authorities to strengthen security measures and improve the safety of boda boda operators across Yambio County.
According to fellow riders, the missing operator was last seen on the night of a football match. His disappearance has raised concerns among colleagues and residents, triggering days of search efforts and appeals for information from the public.
As investigations continue, local authorities have arrested several suspects to assist with inquiries, including the missing rider’s girlfriend.
Speaking during the prayer gathering, the Chairperson of the Boda Boda Association, Badumoyosa Alfred, expressed concern over what he described as a growing trend of violence targeting boda boda operators in the area.
“We are deeply concerned by the growing cases of violence affecting boda boda riders. We appeal to the public to respect our members and work with us to address any misunderstandings peacefully,” Alfred said. “If anyone has an issue with a boda boda rider, let them bring the matter to our office so that it can be resolved peacefully. Violence is not the solution,” he added.
He urged community members to respect motorcycle riders. He encouraged anyone with grievances against operators to channel their complaints through the association’s office for peaceful resolution rather than resorting to violence.
Yambio County Commissioner Angelo Bakote confirmed that two suspects are currently in detention and undergoing questioning, while security agencies continue efforts to track down other individuals believed to be connected to the case.
The commissioner appealed to residents to cooperate with investigators by providing any information that could help locate the missing rider. He assured the public that individuals who come forward with information would be protected and that their identities would remain confidential.
“Two suspects are currently in detention and undergoing questioning, while our security forces continue searching for other individuals linked to this case,” Bakote said. “We encourage anyone with information to come forward. Their identity will be protected, and the information they provide will be treated with strict confidentiality,”.
Authorities say investigations remain ongoing as family members, fellow riders, and the wider community continue to hope for answers regarding the rider’s disappearance.