Injured Boda Boda Rider Reappears as Pressure Mounts Over Alleged Abuse by Uasin Gishu Enforcement Officers
“This is part of a worrying pattern where victims are blamed or their injuries downplayed to shield perpetrators,”
Erick Jumba, a boda boda rider who was allegedly assaulted by Uasin Gishu County enforcement officers, addresses journalists during a media briefing in Eldoret. Photo: Mahlon Lichuma
By Hubzmedia
Eric Jumba, a middle-aged boda boda operator whose alleged assault by Uasin Gishu County enforcement officers triggered violent demonstrations in Eldoret last week, has resurfaced publicly after days of uncertainty over his condition, amid mounting calls for accountability.
Jumba had been feared dead after reports emerged that he was struck on the head with a blunt object by county askaris during an enforcement operation in Eldoret’s central business district. The incident sparked outrage among boda boda operators, culminating in overnight protests on Thursday and a prolonged demonstration on Friday that brought business in the town to a standstill.
Still visibly weak and in pain, Jumba told journalists he is recovering and grateful to be alive.
“I had just picked my children from school at around 3pm on Thursday and was heading back to my designated stage when I ran into county enforcement officers I know very well,” Jumba said. “They became hostile, assaulted me and left me for dead.”
His injuries quickly became a rallying point for boda boda riders, who accused county enforcement officers of unchecked brutality against informal sector workers.
Conflicting Accounts and Medical Evidence
While a section of the county leadership initially played down the incident, controversy deepened after a member of the Uasin Gishu County Executive claimed Jumba had collapsed due to an underlying medical condition.
However, medical records appear to contradict that narrative.
A P3 form signed by a medical practitioner at the Uasin Gishu County Hospital, where Jumba was treated, indicates he sustained trauma consistent with being struck at the back of the head with a blunt object.
Human rights groups say the statement by the county executive amounted to an attempt to exonerate the suspected enforcement officers.
“This is part of a worrying pattern where victims are blamed or their injuries downplayed to shield perpetrators,” said Kimutai Kirui, a human rights activist with the Centre Against Torture.
Police Response and Public Backlash
Uasin Gishu County Police Commander Benjamin Mwanthi has confirmed that Jumba recorded a statement and that investigations have commenced.
“The matter is under active investigation, and we assure members of the public that justice will be served,” Mwanthi said.
However, trust in the process remains fragile.
While hospitalised, Jumba appeared in a short video circulated widely on social media in which he confirmed he was alive and urged protesters to disperse. The clip, which police officers helped record, drew backlash from sections of the boda boda fraternity, some of whom accused him of being compromised.
Jumba now says the video was recorded under police instruction.
“I was not in a position to refuse. I was injured and under pressure,” he said. “I did not receive any money from anyone”.
Calls for Accountability and Legal Action
Human rights organisations and local leaders have faulted the police—particularly officers at Eldoret Central Police Station—for allegedly shielding county enforcement officers accused of human rights violations.
Kirui has demanded the immediate transfer of the Central Police Station Officer Commanding Station (OCS), claiming the officer has served in the region for nearly 15 years and presided over a culture of impunity.
Photo: Mahlon Lichuma
“Enforcement officers in Uasin Gishu appear more powerful than the police,” Kirui said. “They continue to commit atrocities and human rights violations despite numerous OB numbers recorded by the public. Political protection has eroded residents’ faith in the police and the Constitution’s promise of protection of life.”
Huruma Ward MCA and advocate Kimani Wanjohi has pledged free legal aid to Jumba and vowed to push for the prosecution of those responsible.
“We cannot normalise brutality against traders and boda boda operators,” Wanjohi said. “The law must apply equally, regardless of office or uniform.”
Business Community Counts Losses
The Uasin Gishu Chamber of Commerce and Industry has meanwhile called for structured engagement between county authorities, security agencies and informal sector groups to prevent future unrest.
Chapter chair Willy Kenei said traders suffered significant losses during the Friday protests and warned that recurring confrontations were hurting Eldoret’s reputation as a regional commercial hub.
A Familiar Pattern
Eldoret City has for years been dogged by allegations of excessive force by county enforcement officers against traders and boda boda riders. Many past cases have reportedly collapsed due to intimidation, witness withdrawal and prolonged delays at the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions.
Kirui warns that Jumba’s case risks suffering the same fate.
“There is a growing graveyard of unresolved files,” he said. “Without sustained public pressure, this case may quietly die.”
As investigations continue, all eyes are now on whether Eric Jumba’s ordeal will finally mark a turning point in holding county enforcement officers to account—or become yet another entry in Eldoret’s long list of unresolved abuse claims.
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