RUBIRIZI – Traffic Police in Rubirizi District have introduced a breathalyser testing machine to help curb drunk riding and reduce road accidents, as authorities intensify operations targeting reckless riders, theft, and indiscipline on the roads.
The initiative was announced during a bodaboda riders’ and taxi drivers’ dialogue meeting held at Nyakasharu playground, where police and transport stakeholders discussed measures to improve road safety and discipline among road users.
Afande Twebaze Richard Oc, the Traffic Officer in Charge Rubirizi, urged bodaboda riders to maintain cleanliness, discipline, and professionalism, stressing that they should also embrace a saving culture to improve their livelihoods and support national efforts to reduce crime.
He noted that ongoing police operations are targeting reckless riders, thieves posing as bodaboda operators, and individuals who endanger the lives of passengers.
According to Afande Twebaze, Rubirizi District has registered 48 road accidents since the beginning of 2026. Of these, four were fatal, 30 resulted in serious injuries, and 10 were minor injuries. He added that out of the total cases reported to police, 30 involved bodaboda riders.
He warned that police will arrest individuals who disguise themselves as bodaboda riders at stages, saying such practices have contributed to rising theft and insecurity in the area.
During the same meeting, Rubirizi District Police Commander Afande Lilian Kikobye emphasized that bodaboda riders play a vital role in community safety and development and must cooperate with security agencies to fight criminality, over-speeding, and theft.
She warned that any rider caught driving under the influence of alcohol will be arrested and prosecuted, adding that road safety must be prioritized to protect passengers’ lives. She also encouraged riders to report criminals hiding at stages and stealing from passengers.
The Chairperson of the Rubirizi Bodaboda Association, Mr. Barigye Deo, urged riders to be role models in their communities by practicing discipline, avoiding over-speeding, and working closely with their families to improve household welfare.
He further encouraged them to embrace a saving culture to fight poverty, reduce domestic conflicts, and build stable livelihoods.
One of the participants, Mr. Bazurizi Johnbosco from Nyakasharu stage, appreciated the police for the training, saying the new guidelines and knowledge will help riders improve safety, cleanliness, and reduce accidents.
The meeting ended with a call for stronger collaboration between bodaboda riders, police, and local leaders to improve road safety and reduce crime in Rubirizi District.
