Police urge public vigilance during Easter celebrations

Kampala, Uganda | URN | The Uganda Police Force has warned the public to remain vigilant during the Easter celebrations, citing increased risk of criminal activity targeting homes, churches, and crowded entertainment venues. According to Kampala Metropolitan Deputy Police Spokesperson Luke Owoyesigyire, festive periods often attract opportunistic criminals who take advantage of large gatherings and unattended homes.

In an Easter message, Owoyesigyire noted that many Ugandans flock to churches, music concerts, bars, and beaches during the holiday, making such places potential targets for criminals. He said police, together with other security agencies, have deployed personnel to key locations, including places of worship, entertainment spots, and transport hubs, as part of intelligence-led operations to prevent crime.

Despite the heightened vigilance, police say there are currently no specific threats identified, but have urged the public to remain alert and report any suspicious activity.

Owoyesigyire further advised the public to take precautionary measures such as securing their homes when traveling, safeguarding personal belongings in crowded places, and adhering to traffic regulations. Police also revealed that the Traffic Directorate has intensified operations against reckless driving, warning that offenders will face strict enforcement to reduce road accidents, which tend to increase during festive seasons.Last year’s Easter celebrations were marred by incidents of house break-ins, robberies, and attacks at social events across areas including Mpigi, Kyengera, Kira Municipality, Mukono, and Nansana. In one such incident, a businessman, Eddie Nsubuga, was attacked at his home in Muduma, Mpigi District, by a group of armed thugs on Good Friday night.

The assailants, reportedly armed with pangas and housebreaking tools, robbed him of valuables and fled using his vehicle, which was later recovered along Ssentema Road. Police say such incidents highlight the need for heightened community vigilance and cooperation with security agencies during the festive period.