Detectives at Kabalagala Police Station, Kampala, are investigating a case in which a 22-year-old woman was allegedly gang-raped by three unidentified boda boda riders in Muyenga, an upscale suburb of the city.
Kampala Metropolitan Police spokesperson, SP Racheal Kawala, said the victim, a resident of Nsangi, Wakiso District, was assaulted on Thursday after leaving a birthday party at a club in Bugoloobi at around 4 am.
Ms Kawala said the woman, who was unfamiliar with the area, initially attempted to negotiate for the fare with one boda boda rider but failed to agree. She later secured another rider who accepted Shs 15,000 to take her home.
‘The first rider declined to take her at the agreed fare, but the second accepted. As they proceeded, the first rider flagged down two other individuals, and they followed the motorcycle carrying the victim,’ Ms Kawala said.
Police said the rider later diverted from the agreed route, passing through the Industrial Area before heading towards Muyenga, with the two other motorcycles trailing closely behind.
According to the victim’s statement recorded at Kabalagala police station, the riders stopped at a dark and isolated location where the three men allegedly took turns sexually assaulting her, given that she was intoxicated and unable to resist.
After the assault, the suspects reportedly fled with her handbag, which contained an unspecified amount of cash and two smartphones. The victim was later rescued by passersby and rushed to the hospital for medical attention.
Police said the incident bears similarities to previous crimes linked to motorcycle gangs that target unsuspecting passengers at night across Kampala and its metropolitan areas.
Last year, police arrested several suspects connected to a string of robberies and sexual assaults involving boda boda riders. The gangs typically stage fake mechanical breakdowns in isolated areas, allowing accomplices to surround, rob and assault victims before escaping through back routes.
Among those arrested were Stephen Sserwanyiri, 34, Robert Mukisa, 24, and their alleged ringleader, Jamir Mutaawe. Their arrest followed the robbery of one Enid Naginda, a 24-year-old waitress working in a Kololo bar.
Police have renewed their appeal for public vigilance, particularly during night travel.
‘We urge the public to avoid moving alone, especially at night, and to steer clear of unfamiliar routes, which are prime targets for criminals. If you attend night parties, take extra precautions. For safer boda boda rides, use trusted riders or reputable service companies. Avoid isolated routes, adjust travel times where possible, and keep valuable items such as expensive phones and gadgets out of sight,’ Ms Kawala said.