Some matatu operators went on strike on Monday, disrupting traffic in several parts of Nairobi, as they protested alleged harassment by boda boda riders.
The operators accused boda boda riders of attacking matatus and setting them on fire after road accidents. They said those responsible should be arrested and punished, and called for stricter discipline and regulation of boda boda operations.
According to the operators, at least 10 public service and private vehicles have been burned in recent months in Nairobi, Thika and Nakuru following accidents involving boda bodas.
On Monday morning, protesting public service vehicle (PSV) operators blocked the Gitaru Interchange along Waiyaki Way, causing heavy traffic jams on roads leading to the Central Business District (CBD). Motorists were forced to use alternative routes as traffic came to a standstill for several hours.
More traffic disruptions were reported near Khoja Roundabout and around Muthurwa along Haile Selassie Road in the CBD. In another incident, PSV operators parked their vehicles near Kariobangi Roundabout on Outering Road, temporarily blocking traffic in the area.
Police were deployed to the affected areas to clear the roads and restore normal traffic. Authorities said they were working to calm tensions and ensure public safety.
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Despite the protests, several major roads were not affected. Kenyatta Avenue, Moi Avenue, Tom Mboya Street and nearby roads remained clear. Matatu services along Ngong Road and Argwings Kodhek Road also continued normally.
The striking operators accused boda boda riders of intimidation and interfering with their work, calling on authorities to act against what they described as rising lawlessness at key transport points.
Police urged calm as they continued talks with stakeholders to resolve the dispute. Motorists and pedestrians were advised to be cautious near the affected areas and to use alternative routes where possible. Police also removed and confiscated number plates from matatus involved in the protests.
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