LIRA — Security agencies in Lira City have restored order after a boda boda protest disrupted traffic along the Lira-Soroti Highway on Monday.
Police said 15 suspected ringleaders were arrested after riders blocked the busy road.
The operators were protesting the arrest of some of their colleagues over non-payment of a disputed Shs35,000 registration fee.
The blockade affected movement on a major transport corridor linking Uganda to Kenya and South Sudan through the eastern route.
Security personnel later intervened and cleared the road.
Police Condemn Highway Blockade
Addressing journalists on Monday evening, North Kyoga regional police spokesperson SP Patrick Jimmy Okema condemned the protest.
He described the blockade as unlawful and unnecessary.
“We would like to disagree with the actions of our brothers from the boda boda industry within Lira City. We therefore condemn very strongly that the approach that members have taken to show their grievance was uncalled for,” Okema said.
He said riders should have used peaceful and lawful channels to raise their concerns.
“There are many other alternative dispute resolution mechanisms they could have pursued, including approaching the relevant offices so that their concerns are heard,” he added.
Police said investigations have started.
Okema said the suspects will be handled individually, depending on their alleged roles in the protest.
He added that police are compiling case files and will consult the Resident Chief State Attorney before deciding on the charges.
City Authorities Dismiss Shutdown Claims
Lira Resident City Commissioner Lawrence Egole dismissed reports on social media that businesses had been burnt and the city shut down.
He described the claims as misleading.
“Security agencies intervened immediately to ensure that normal business operations could resume,” Egole said.
He said calm was restored shortly after the protest started.
According to Egole, business activity continued after security agencies cleared the affected area.
Mayor Defends Boda Boda Registration
Lira City Mayor Sam Atul defended the ongoing digital registration exercise for boda boda operators.
He said the programme is intended to improve security and remove duplication in rider identification records.
City authorities say the registration exercise is meant to streamline the transport sector.
They also say it will support efforts to fight crime involving motorcycles.
However, the protest shows growing tension between some boda boda operators and city authorities over the registration exercise and related fees.
Police warned riders against future acts of lawlessness.
They said grievances should be addressed through proper channels instead of blocking roads and disrupting business.