Police have announced plans to release thousands of unclaimed boda bodas that were impounded during various operations across Uganda. According to Michael Kananura, the spokesperson for traffic police, all motorcycles detained for minor infractions will be returned to their owners upon claim.
“We currently have numerous motorcycles stored at various police stations nationwide, particularly within the Kampala Metropolitan Area, which remain unclaimed. We urge the public to visit these stations and present proper documentation related to their motorcycles in order to retrieve them,” Kananura informed journalists on Monday.
“Many of these motorcycles have no pending investigations or inquiries associated with them. It’s possible that some owners whose motorcycles were reported missing may find them among those held at police stations. We encourage them to come forward.”
Over the years, police operations have primarily targeted boda bodas, focusing on riders without proper licenses, reflector jackets, and helmets as measures to enforce discipline and enhance road safety in Uganda.
Speaking further, Kananura noted that the majority of motorcycles currently detained at police stations were seized for minor infractions such as lacking permits, helmets, or reflective jackets. However, he clarified that owners seeking to reclaim their motorcycles must also pay express penalty fees in addition to proving ownership.
He emphasized that motorcycles involved in serious offenses such as robbery, murder, or accidents leading to fatalities will not be released, as these cases are still under investigation or pending court proceedings.”
