By Leonard Kamugisha Akida,
KASSANDA
The Uganda Police Force has said they are committed to fortifying security in the mining sector one of the measures to combat crimes and ensuring safety of miners as they conduct their mining business.
The revelation was made by the Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIGP) Tumusiime Katsigazi while meeting with Kassanda miners at Kyekampala in Kijuna Sub-county, Kassanda district on Thursday.
On several occasions, artisanal miners in Kassanda and other mining areas have accused police and the military of harassment and torture of their colleagues doing mining in the area.
In Kassanda alone, residents who are mostly miners have hitherto claimed that their only source of livelihood is mining, but they can no longer access the mines due to heavy deployment of soldiers to prevent illegal mining.
The miners say the continued harassment and brutality by the soldiers has forced many people to opt out of the business something that has contributed to high crime rates in the region noting that they are likely to even starve as there is no other source of income.
But, during the meeting, the DIGP said the police and other law agencies are committed to combat criminal activities, ensuring the safety and well-being of the region.
According to police, the meeting was to primarily and directly address the pressing security concerns prevalent in the mining areas.
“DIGP Katsigazi had embarked on a significant visit to Kassanda district where he extensively toured various mining areas within the district and gained insights into the operations of gold mines and the challenges faced by the industry,” said upf
The meeting also highlighted the collective responsibility required to bolster security in the mining sector and the surrounding communities.
In addition, the DIGp appealed to mine owners to profile their workers as a preventive measure against crime, particularly highlighting the potential challenges posed by immigrant workers.
He called for a need for vigilance against potential terror threats and the significance of mitigating them effectively.
The tour covered several key mining sites including Kisita Gold Mine in Mbirizzi sub-county, Ngugo in Mbirizzi sub-county, Lubali in Kitumbi sub-county and Kyekampala in Kijuna sub-county.
