By Leonard Kamugisha Akida,
KAMPALA
A youthful man from Wakiso district has been arrested for robbing a youthful woman whom he met on Facebook.
Steven Odongkara, 28, a resident of Bulaga “B” village, Wakiso is alleged to have used his Facebook account to lure Namiiro Jemima, 27, a resident of Najjanankumbi Kampala on November 14, last year whom he asked for a date and met at Kasasa Bulaga.
Odongkara allegedly put his new lover on a knife-point and robbed her of a handbag which contained money and cosmetics valued at Shs200,000.
“Along the way, while escorting each other, the suspect drew out a knife and stabbed the victim on the right hand, then grabbed her bag, and escaped from the scene,” police reported.
A case of simple robbery on a knife-point was reported to police on November 22, 2023, at around 10:30am by the victim.
Police spokesperson SCP Fred Enanga said on Tuesday January 2, 2024 that the suspected was apprehended and arrested on December 27, 2023.
According to Enanga, the suspect upon arrest admitted to having committed numerous string of knife-point robberies, against female victims lured from Facebook
“An immediate search was conducted, and a knife recovered from, him. The suspect admitted to luring girls and women on Facebook and robbing from them,” said Enanga.
Police urged girls and women searching for lovers online, to be cautious about the persons they are dealing with from different dating sites.
“In this instance, the suspect admitted to robbing all victims after meeting them, following chats and conversations on Facebook. The victims were forced to surrender their bags, phones, and other valuables. In some of the incidents, the victims suffered knife injuries,” he explained.
The police mouthpiece also warned against meeting strange lovers in private dating points.
“We would like to recommend safety tips to keep in mind, when meeting someone online. It is good practice to meet at a public place with others around. It is also important to have a buddy system, when going on dates. Tell a friend, whom you are going out with, photos and contacts. Do not go on a first date, when you are not around people. Either meet at a bar or restaurant. Other advanced arrangements can only take place after, knowing each other, very well. ” Enanga advised.
