Filbert Waibi, Nebbi District Police Commander, added that during a security meeting with LCs, it was agreed that LCs should be responsible for the security of their people and ensure they identify all members in their cells, particularly those renting, to capture their details for security purposes and minimize criminal activities.
To reduce criminal activities, particularly animal theft and housebreaking, which have been reported in urban towns and cells, police and local councils (LCs) have agreed to conduct a joint security cleanup exercise ahead of the Christmas season. The goal of this joint operation is to minimize crime during the festive season by identifying hideouts and individuals whose identities are unknown, and who are suspected of being security threats in the community.
Constantine Onenchan Angaba, the LC I Chairperson of Kasuku Cell in Abindu Division, Nebbi Municipality, said there have been numerous cases of stolen animals and housebreaking. He believes the joint operations will address the concerns of community members whose properties are being stolen.
Onenchan explained that due to the pressure of the festive season, goats are often stolen and slaughtered illegally in homes at night, and their meat is transported to butcheries in sacks.
“We are getting reports of animal theft and housebreaking, which prompted us to conduct joint operations with the police to weed out the wrongdoers in their hideouts.
This will include the previous recommendation letter from LCs about the occupant's residence and the person’s job details,” Onenchan said. Filbert Waibi, Nebbi District Police Commander, added that during a security meeting with LCs, it was agreed that LCs should be responsible for the security of their people and ensure they identify all members in their cells, particularly those renting, to capture their details for security purposes and minimize criminal activities.
“We are approaching the festive season, and people should take charge of their valuable assets, especially animals, which are in high demand during this time,” Waibi said. Waibi further revealed that, two months ago, unknown individuals spent nights at a lodge, where they broke into pharmacies and Airtel shops in an attempt to steal. They were later arrested with the help of community members. He emphasized the need for heightened security, as thieves often target weak points during the festive season.
Robert Abak, the Resident District Commissioner (RDC) for Nebbi, urged community members to be vigilant and protect their animals and money during the festive season, as thieves and conmen often target large shops and those with many animals. “LCs should not allow animals to pass through their areas without a valid LC letter, and the origin of the animal must be clearly indicated. LCs must also engage local defense units to safeguard and monitor animals moving at night,” Abak said.
Okaba Patrick
Freelancer