The Ministry of Interior and National Administration has ordered the release of all motorbikes impounded for minor traffic violations.
The directive was issued by Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo on Wednesday, April 29, as part of broader efforts to streamline enforcement and strengthen cooperation between security agencies and boda boda operators nationwide.
According to the ministry, the move targets motorbikes detained for non-serious offences and regulatory non-compliance that do not pose significant public safety risks.
Government orders release of impounded motorbikes over minor offences. Photo: Courtesy.
These include failure to wear helmets or reflective jackets, lack of valid insurance, minor licensing issues, and improper parking.
The National Police Service has been directed to oversee the immediate and structured release of the affected motorbikes.
Boda boda leadership across counties will work with authorities to verify ownership and ensure that riders reclaim their bikes efficiently.
The directive comes shortly before Labour Day, with the government framing the decision as recognition of the role of boda boda operators in supporting livelihoods.
The development follows recent remarks by Omollo indicating that the government is considering integrating boda boda operators into community-based security efforts.
Speaking in Kisumu County after a stakeholder meeting, he noted that riders play a key role in last-mile transport and interact with large segments of the population daily, placing them in a strategic position to support intelligence sharing and enhance public safety.
