Matatu operators stage strike over alleged harassment by Boda Boda riders
A section of matatu operators on Monday staged a strike in protest over alleged harassment by boda boda riders, causing traffic disruptions in several parts of Nairobi.
The operators claimed boda boda operators have been attacking and setting on fire matatus involved in accidents.
They want those behind the incidents be punished. They also want the boda boda operators to be disciplined and properly regulated.
At least ten public service vehicles and private ones have been set on fire by the riders following accidents in the past months in Nairobi, Thika and Nakuru.
On Monday, the protesting public service vehicle (PSV) operators blocked the Gitaru Interchange along Waiyaki Way, leading to heavy traffic congestion on routes heading to the Central Business District (CBD). Motorists were forced to seek alternative routes as traffic ground to a halt for several hours.
Further blockages were reported near Khoja Roundabout and in the Muthurwa area along Haile Selassie Road within the CBD.
In a separate incident, PSV operators parked their vehicles near Kariobangi Roundabout along Outering Road, temporarily disrupting traffic movement in the area.
Police officers were deployed to the affected locations and were actively engaged in clearing the roads and restoring normal traffic flow.
Authorities said efforts were underway to de-escalate tensions and ensure public safety.
Despite the disruptions, several major roads remained unaffected.
Kenyatta Avenue, Moi Avenue, Tom Mboya Street and adjacent roads were reported to be clear.
PSV operations along Ngong Road and Argwings Kodhek Road continued normally, with no disruptions reported.
The striking operators accused boda boda riders of intimidation and interference with their operations, calling for intervention by authorities to address what they described as growing lawlessness at key transport hubs.
Police urged calm as they engage stakeholders to resolve the dispute. Motorists and pedestrians were advised to exercise caution when approaching the affected areas and to consider alternative routes as clearance operations continue.
Police also removed and confiscated number plates of the matatus that were caught in the protests.