Matatu operators block Ngong Road in protest over police extortion

Nairobi’s Ngong Road was brought to a standstill on Thursday morning as matatu operators staged a protest, accusing police officers of harassment and extortion.

Operators honked their horns and obstructed traffic to draw the attention of police, whom they alleged have been harassing and extorting money from them to permit their operations.

One group of protesters gathered at Dagoretti Corner near Junction, while another assembled at Prestige Plaza.

The operators alleged that police officers routinely demand bribes, with some claiming they are coerced into paying at least five times a day.

One operator expressed frustration, saying, "We are tired of the police extorting us every day." It’s like we are working just to pay bribes.”

Another operator alleged that police officers often demand Sh100 for each trip, with bribes escalating to a minimum of Sh500 when arrested arbitrarily.

"The police often ask for Sh100 for every trip we make. When they arrest someone, they usually demand at least Sh500. Sometimes, they even arrest us without any real reason. At the end of the day, you find you’ve given the police Sh1,000," the driver said.

Videos and photos circulated online showed motorists trapped in a lengthy traffic jam stretching from Junction Mall to the Karen roundabout. The gridlock left many commuters stranded, forcing some to turn back or seek alternative routes to work.

Police man traffic along Ngong Road. (Photo: Handout)

Authorities advised motorists to use the Matasia, Kiserian, and Rongai routes to avoid the protests. Kilimani police chief Ben Kobia stated that he engaged with the protesters, leading to a peaceful dispersal.

“They shared their concerns with us, and we are currently investigating the matter. We will take the appropriate action,” he said.

The protest follows a call by the Matatu Movement Kenya on Sunday for a nationwide strike, citing exploitation by insurance companies and auctioneers.

This is not the first instance of matatu operators protesting against police harassment. In 2023, a similar demonstration occurred over allegations of bribe demands and extortion by traffic officers.

Kenyans also took to social media to condemn the alleged actions of the police.

One X user, Magwa, expressed frustration, saying, “The police get paid, yet if you report an issue, they won't help without asking for a bribe. What is wrong with these people?”

"Nowadays, traffic police have targets like loan collectors. Every bus must pass, even if it’s overloaded!” Alee Hussein said.

Another user issued a warning, stating, "We expect more blockades before the end of the week." We’re fed up as matatu operators.”