This archive report was first published on 5 August 2019.
Published on August 5, 2019, Rift Valley matatu operators have raised concerns over the infiltration of their sector by organised criminal gangs.
According to the operators, the gangs have taken control of a majority of the bus termini in the region, leading to significant financial losses. Chairman of the Central Rift Matatu Owners Association, David Kuria, pointed out that the gangs are charging operators fees to operate in the termini, despite them being public spaces.
“In the region, we are losing up to Sh50 million every month to these organised gangs. The gangs are charging the operators certain fees to be allowed to operate in the termini despite them being public spaces,” said Kuria.
The operators also alleged that the gangs are responsible for the hike in bus fares during peak seasons, with drivers being directed to hike fares and later extorted by the gangs.
“The cartels have been directing drivers to hike fares, especially during holidays. They later recover the money by extortion from the drivers per trip made or risk being expelled. This is clearly robbing the travellers,” said Kuria.
The operators called on the Ministry of Interior Security to intervene and dismantle the gangs, which they claim are operating with impunity.
Nakuru East Deputy Sub County Police Commander Daniel Kitavi assured the operators that a major crackdown on the gangs was underway and would be extended to the termini.
“We are currently focusing on safety within the residential estates where we have managed to bring down most criminal gangs. Criminals are known to retreat to the bus stops after committing crimes and we shall be after them to all locations,” said Kitavi.
