Heavy Security Deployed as Authorities Demolish Illegal Structures in Busia

There was heavy deployment of police, soldiers, and municipal enforcement officers in Busia Town as authorities began demolishing illegal structures.

The operation, which started on Wednesday afternoon, is aimed at implementing directives issued by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Local Government to restore order in trade.

The demolition began in the Western Division before extending to the Eastern Division, where the Busia Municipal Council used graders under tight security to bring down buildings and other temporary structures deemed illegal. For the past two weeks, the Municipal Council has been evicting street vendors and hawkers.

Wednesday’s operation, however, was intensified with heavy security deployment as authorities cracked down on unauthorised structures. Johnson Wafuba, the Busia Deputy Town Clerk, said landlords and traders had been given one month to remove illegal structures and vacate the streets.

Wafuba said the heavy deployment was intended to ensure smooth enforcement and deal with those who had failed to comply with the directive.

He added that the council wants vendors to relocate to the newly constructed Busia Main Market, while others can operate from Arubaine Market, noting that proper organisation will improve revenue collection. However, some residents expressed dissatisfaction with the operation.

Salima Taaka said she could not afford to operate from the main market due to limited capital.Sylvia Namboze said her temporary structures, where she operated a small restaurant, had been demolished, leaving her stranded.

Izac Magero, a bar operator at Equator Market, said the notice period given was too short to allow traders to prepare adequately. Sharifwa Tuheirwa said the demolition had disrupted her business, which she depended on to support her children’s education.

Alina Voice, another resident, said it was unfair to evict certain businesses, such as welding, which have not been allocated space in the main market. By the time of filing this report, the demolition exercise was still ongoing, with security forces maintaining a heavy presence as the crackdown continued.