Kigezi
The Kigezi region police command, together with its territorial districts of Kabale, Rubanda, Kisoro, Kanungu, Rukungiri, and Rukuga, have warned the public regarding the upcoming Christmas celebrations. The Christmas festival is a time of joy and excitement, with large congregational church gatherings, overnight prayers, busy transport terminals, music shows, and various associated events.
However, it is important to highlight the potential security risks during this festive season. Certain individuals may take advantage of the festivities to engage in criminal activities such as terrorism, kidnappings, sexual offenses, break-ins, burglaries, thefts, and counterfeit currency transactions, police warned.
Sp Elly Maate riased these concerns and revealed that the police force has developed an operational order specifically for the Christmas season. He noted that their primary goal is to protect life and property, maintain law and order, detect and prevent crime, and work in collaboration with other security forces and the public to ensure a peaceful Christmas season.
Kigezi regional police urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the local leadership and police as soon as possible.
Maate noted that to enhance security measures, they have increased covert and overt deployment through both foot and motorized patrols and that their command center will be operational 24/7 to monitor situations and address any emerging concerns.
“In terms of individual responsibility, it is crucial for entertainment centers, places of worship, and all gathering areas to beef up their security. This can be achieved by implementing measures such as metal detectors and walk-through machines at entry points, as well as having sufficient personnel, including Kanyamas (bouncers), to monitor activities and ensure the safety of the people”said Maate.
Maate also assured the public that as as community police, they are committed to working closely with the community and addressing any complaints or concerns promptly and ensure that law and order prevail throughout the Christmas season as their priority.
