Truck operators decry arbitrary arrests by police for refusing to pay bribes

Police officers have been put on the spot for allegedly harassing pick-up truck operators in Nairobi, who claimed they are often arrested or dragged to court for refusing to pay bribes.

In a session with Members of Parliament on Thursday, the operators under the Chapa Works network told legislators that rogue officers are frustrating their work, prompting legislators to call for urgent intervention and policy reforms.

Among the operators included Stephen Mburu, Mary Ndung’u, John Wanjeru, Daniel Kamau and James Macharia, who shared personal accounts of being taken to court unfairly and accused officers of targeting them specifically for resisting extortion attempts.

The Departmental Committee on Transport and Infrastructure, chaired by Ndia MP George Kariuki, expressed concern over the allegations, blaming law enforcement agencies for perpetuating impunity and undermining the rights of small-scale transporters.

“We are committed to helping you find redress and ensuring that all transport operators are treated fairly,” Kariuki said, directing the office of the Clerk to assist the group in formalising their grievances into a petition.

Kariuki also faulted the absence of police representatives in the meeting, saying their input would have been essential to respond to the serious claims raised.

Other MPs echoed his sentiments, including Limuru MP John Kiragu, who blamed the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) for granting enforcement powers to police officers without proper checks, which he said had opened the door to abuse.

“KeNHA should be held accountable for allowing enforcement that ends up being misused by the police,” Kiragu said.

Nakuru Town West MP Samuel Arama called for clear definitions of enforcement roles, saying the lack of clarity was allowing exploitation.

“The functions of these agencies must be well defined, especially when dealing with informal sector players,” he said.

Rarieda MP TJ Kajwang challenged Chapa Works to scale up their advocacy beyond the 300 members based in Nairobi and represent operators across the country.

“You are not just representing Nairobi; you are speaking for pick-up truck operators across the country,” Kajwang told them.

“You need to conduct wider research and present factual, nationwide data to strengthen your case.”

The Committee reaffirmed its commitment to protecting informal sector workers and pledged to engage relevant agencies to ensure a fair and safe working environment for all transport operators.

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