The leadership of Bukimbiri United Boda Boda Operators (BUBO) has urged riders to strengthen cooperation with security agencies to help prevent crime and protect their lives and livelihoods amid growing security concerns in Kisoro District.
BUBO Chairperson Mugabe Robert said boda boda operators must remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious activities to security personnel to prevent criminals from exploiting the motorcycle transport industry.
Speaking at the annual meeting with stage leaders held in Rubuguri Town Council on Friday, November 13, 2026, Mugabe said the safety of riders and the public should be a shared responsibility between operators and security agencies.
His remarks come amid growing concern over murder cases in Kisoro District, where security agencies have linked suspects in two recent shooting incidents to the use of motorcycles.
Mugabe said the incidents have placed boda boda operators at greater risk of becoming targets of criminal attacks or being wrongly suspected of involvement in criminal activities.
He urged riders to report suspicious movements, unusual passengers and any other activities that could threaten public safety, warning that withholding information could endanger lives and tarnish the reputation of genuine operators.
Mugabe revealed that following a recent security meeting convened by the Resident District Commissioner (RDC) and the District Police Commander (DPC), security officials advised leaders of BUBO and Kisoro United Boda Boda Operators (KUBO) to strengthen cooperation to identify and isolate criminal elements within the industry.
He said sustained collaboration between the two associations and security agencies would help protect riders while making it difficult for criminals to use motorcycles to facilitate their activities.
The chairperson also announced that BUBO has introduced cashless transactions at its office to improve efficiency, strengthen financial accountability and enhance security in handling payments.
Uwimana Nestori, the general secretary of Gateriteri boda boda stage in Bukimbiri Sub-county, supported the call, saying operators transport people and goods daily and therefore have a responsibility to contribute to community safety.
He said reports linking motorcycles to recent murders should prompt riders to work more closely with security agencies to protect themselves and the communities they serve.
Byomujunyi Medard of Rubuguri Boda Boda Stage commended BUBO members for maintaining discipline, unity and vigilance, urging riders to exercise extra caution, particularly at night and when operating along isolated routes.
After the meeting, BUBO leaders inspected their new office building, which is nearing completion.
Mugabe said construction works were almost complete, with only the toilets remaining, adding that the facility would save the association from the recurring cost of renting office space once it becomes operational.
