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Why robberies by boda boda gangs are on the rise in Nairobi


A private security firm in Nairobi has outlined reasons behind the rise of robbery by gangs riding on motorcycles in the city.

Securex Security Company, in a statement, said it had noted that in the last three months, 13 per cent of the robberies recorded were by gangs riding on motorcycles.

Chief Operating Officer Daniel Lemmer said the motorcycles are preferred by robbers as they provide them with quick escape means.

“The allure for gangs to use motorbikes as getaway vehicles is apparent; as a fast, mobile and almost untraceable means of escape. We have reason to believe legitimate boda boda operators are also victims of these gangs, as is illustrated by reports of such operators being accosted and their bikes stolen,” said Mr Lemmer.

The company also attributed the rise to the affordability of motorcycles.

PRETENDING TO BE HONEST

“Motorbikes are easily affordable. The worry arises when one can hire a motorbike for a day for as little as Sh300. Such bikes could then be used by gangs pretending to be honest bodaboda riders while scouting for potential victims or premises to target.”

The trend has led to a regulation of operating hours for bodabodas in some areas like Athi River where a curfew from 11pm has been placed to reduce the number of legitimate riders falling victim to the gangs.

According to Mr Lemmer, police can curb the trend by increasing patrol on motorbikes. He also called on residents of affected areas to be more vigilant and aware of crime trends in their localities.

Mr Lemmer also urged the public to consider carrying dummy wallets, which would ideally contain a few expired bank cards and loose change.

“Owing to the daring and opportunistic nature of this form of crime, most incidents hardly last more than a couple of minutes. Thugs here prefer to hit and escape quickly. Some won’t even have the time to frisk a victim for valuables, but instead opt to demand one’s wallet, mobile phone and bag.”

COMPLY WITH DEMANDS

He further advised that victims confronted by such thugs would do well to comply with their demands as opposed to resistance.

“These criminals are looking for a quick score and escape, and would therefore view any resistance as provocation for violence. It would be advisable to surrender, but also be observant and take in as much information as possible during the robbery. Any details would be vital in assisting the Police with their investigations.”