By Gilbert Akampa Kakurugu
ISINGIRO
Security concerns in Kabaare Parish have taken center stage after a meeting between police commanders and local leaders highlighted rampant cattle theft, drug abuse, and criminal gangs terrorizing residents along the Isingiro highway.
Kushemererwa Andrew, the LC2 chairperson of Kabaare, noted that the parish’s proximity to Mbarara City, Rukuuba, Birere, and Nyamisindo has made it a notorious escape route for thieves, particularly cattle rustlers. He revealed that black spots along the Isingiro highway, especially between Nyamitanga and Kaberebe, have become hotspots for attacks, with incidents reported almost weekly. He further warned of growing ghettos where marijuana and other dangerous substances are openly sold, worsening insecurity.
Residents also raised concerns about rogue police officers allegedly extorting money and beating those who fail to pay during night patrols.
Andrew urged authorities to address noise pollution from mushrooming churches and called for stronger collaboration between Isingiro and Mbarara police, noting that residents often seek help from Katete Police Station due to the distance of Kaberebe and Masha.
Isingiro District Police Commander (DPC) SSP Didas Byaruhanga, who has served in the district for three months, acknowledged Kabaare’s troubling record of cattle theft. He said one suspect remains on the run but assured residents that he would be apprehended. Byaruhanga warned that the suspect is believed to lead a racket still active in the community.
He emphasized that maintaining law and order is a shared responsibility between police and residents. Byaruhanga advised local council leaders to form security teams and pledged to train them in handling security issues, including night patrols. He promised to provide a patrol car and officers to support communities with well-organized patrol plans, adding that such initiatives have succeeded in other areas.
The DPC cautioned LC1 committees against handling theft cases without involving police, stressing that premature release of criminals by officers acting outside proper channels has fueled repeat offenses. He also urged residents to remain vigilant, advising them to stop vehicles transporting animals before 7 a.m. and demand proper documentation verified by LC1 leaders.
Ruti DPC SSP Karen Namara described Kabaare as “no man’s land” due to its border location, which has discouraged residents from reporting cases. She announced a partnership between Ruti and Isingiro police to restore order and sanity in the parish. Namara also called on parents to raise their children responsibly, warning that youth delinquency is contributing to insecurity.
Nankunda Stella, the Officer in Charge of Investigations (OCID), criticized local council leaders who interfere with police work by demanding the release of arrested residents, sometimes colluding with criminals. She encouraged communities to adopt the mayumba kumi (neighborhood watch) system to strengthen vigilance. Stella also urged married couples to respect each other to build stable families and raised alarm over increasing cases of human trafficking, with young girls being exploited as housemaids without proper parental agreements.
The meeting concluded with a call for unity between police and residents. Leaders emphasized that security is a collective responsibility and urged communities to work closely with law enforcement to combat crime. Byaruhanga reminded residents to vote wisely during campaigns, choosing leaders committed to peace and stability.
