Police warn wayward autorickshaw, bodaboda riders

DODOMA: POLICE in Dodoma have issued a strong warning to motorcycle taxi (bodaboda) and autorickshaw (three-wheeler) riders, urging them to refrain from engaging in criminal activities, mob justice and riding under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

The warning came from Dodoma Regional Police Commander, Senior Assistant Commissioner of Police (SACP) George Katabazi, during a sensitisation meeting with bodaboda and autorickshaw riders from across the region.

“It is shameful for bodaboda and autorickshaw riders to be involved in crime or alcohol abuse,” SACP Katabazi said.

“Riders must refrain from transporting criminals or stolen goods. Some of you are being used by robbers and even murderers. Others knowingly carry stolen property and are instructed to hide it from view and yet you comply.”

He reminded the riders of their duty to report criminal activities to law enforcement so swift action could be taken. SACP Katabazi also cautioned against mob justice, noting that it often leads to more harm than good. He urged riders to respect traffic laws for their own safety and to avoid accidents caused by non-compliance.

The police commander condemned the practice of overloading motorcycles, commonly referred to as “mishikaki,” where more than two people are carried on a motorcycle.

“Motorcycles are designed to carry only two people. Overloading causes instability and increases the risk of accidents,” he stressed.

He further reminded riders that Dodoma, unlike other towns, is home to numerous national leaders and institutions.

As such, he insisted the importance of presenting themselves professionally, including wearing appropriate attire.

“A motorcycle should be registered, have a valid driver’s license and be insured. Don’t ride while drunk or under the influence of drugs like khat or marijuana. You should drink after work, not before,” SACP Katabazi advised.

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He also encouraged riders to adopt a more presentable appearance, as many customers prefer neat and professionallooking riders.

SACP Katabazi condemned the dangerous practice of autorickshaw riders carrying more than five passengers, known as “tano bora” (top five), which he said not only damages the properties but also poses a significant safety risk.

Dodoma Regional Traffic Officer (RTO) Yusuph Kamota stressed the importance of valid licenses and insurance for riders.

“Insurance is crucial. If you buy a motorcycle, you must insure it. In case of an accident, insurance helps cover damages. A comprehensive insurance policy for a motorcycle worth 10m/- costs only about 140,600/- and for a motorcycle worth 3m/-, it costs as little as 71,000/-,” he explained.

Meanwhile, a senior officer from the Land Transport Regulatory Authority (LATRA), Mr Ezekiel Emmanuel, encouraged riders to continue obeying road safety laws.

He also underscored the importance of holding a valid driving licence and advised those without one to acquire it to ensure legal recognition.