Thika boda boda riders have raised alarm over what they describe as a rising wave of extortion by plainclothes police officers. The riders allege that the officers, who often patrol on unmarked motorcycles, routinely demand bribes for minor or questionable infractions such as not wearing helmets, lacking reflector jackets, or missing documentation violations that the officers themselves are allegedly guilty of.
In a recent incident that has sparked public outrage, an elderly milk vendor from Kandara was reportedly harassed and intimidated by the same officers. Locals say the case highlights a disturbing level of impunity, where even the most vulnerable are not spared, with many simply trying to earn an honest living.
The riders are now calling for urgent intervention by the police command and oversight agencies to rein in the rogue officers and restore public trust.
