In a shocking incident last night, a bodaboda rider was attacked and left for dead after thieves stole his motorcycle, which was equipped with a tracking device. The incident has sparked outrage among bodaboda riders in Masaka, who are now calling for increased security measures to curb the rising cases of motorcycle theft in the area.
The victim, whose motorcycle registration number is UGB 953 S, was ambushed and beaten unconscious before the thieves made off with his bike. The motorcycle was later traced to the home of a wealthy individual in Kirumba A, Nyendo-Mukungwe Division, Masaka City, after the tracker led authorities to the location.
Bodaboda riders, who gathered at the scene, expressed frustration over the incident, accusing the police of failing to protect them. They revealed that the stolen motorcycle was found hidden in a bush near the suspect’s home, but the tracker had already been removed.
Police officers, who arrived at the scene to investigate, were unable to apprehend the suspects, as they had fled. The bodaboda riders, visibly angry, demanded justice and better protection from law enforcement.
Ssekamanya Abdu, a local journalist who witnessed the incident, criticized the police for their slow response and failure to arrest the suspects. He also condemned the attackers for their brutality, leaving the rider in critical condition.
Ssempima Charles, a bodaboda rider in Kirumba, called on fellow riders to remain vigilant and work together to combat theft. He suggested that riders form patrol groups to monitor their areas and prevent such incidents.
Other riders shared their experiences, highlighting the growing insecurity in Masaka City. They accused some of their colleagues of being involved in theft, making it difficult to trust new members joining their ranks.
Abudala Ssenabulya, the Chairperson of Bodaboda Riders in Greater Masaka, acknowledged the rising cases of motorcycle theft in the area. He urged stage leaders to be more vigilant and screen new members thoroughly to prevent criminals from infiltrating their groups.
Ssenabulya also commended the use of tracking devices, which helped recover the stolen motorcycle. He called on riders to install trackers and other security features on their bikes to deter thieves.
The incident has reignited calls for improved security in Masaka City, with bodaboda riders demanding better protection from law enforcement and stricter measures to combat motorcycle theft. As the community grapples with rising crime, riders are determined to take matters into their own hands to safeguard their livelihoods.
