The Resident District Commissioner (RDC) for Dokolo District, Babra Akech, has tasked Local Council leaders in Southern Ward, Dokolo Town Council, to take immediate action against the rising cases of insecurity reported in the area.
Akech made the call on Thursday during a community Baraza organized by her office to assess the implementation of government programmes, including the Parish Development Model (PDM), Emyoga and Restocking, following complaints raised by residents of Southern Ward.
During the meeting, residents expressed concern over what they described as increasing insecurity, particularly at night, saying some youth in the area were engaging in activities that they believe contribute to criminality.
Ongwech Alex, the LC I Chairperson of Alokiri Cell, attributed the insecurity partly to prolonged card games, loud music and people remaining in trading centres until late hours.
Another resident, Akullo Ketty, said she had recently lost two goats to theft. She alleged that some of those involved in the thefts were people known within the community and called for immediate intervention by security authorities.
Ongeng Tom, another resident of Alokiri Cell, also reported cases of theft, saying residents were losing household items and livestock, including saucepans and goats.
He appealed for increased security patrols in the area to deter thieves and restore residents’ confidence.
Responding to the concerns, RDC Akech warned youth allegedly involved in criminal activities to stop immediately, saying the security team would develop measures to address the reported insecurity in Southern Ward.
She called upon SACCO leaders and beneficiaries who had allegedly been asked for money or had their names manipulated to identify and report those responsible to her office for investigation and appropriate action.
Akech further urged residents to remain vigilant and act as the “eyes and ears” of security authorities by reporting suspicious activities and avoiding unnecessary movement at night, particularly with livestock.
She also directed Local Council leaders to take the lead in addressing security concerns within their respective areas before escalating cases to higher security authorities.
The RDC also addressed concerns of alleged extortion, bribery and irregular beneficiary profiling in government programmes such as PDM and Restocking.
The community Baraza ended with a commitment from Local Council leaders, residents and security stakeholders to work together in combating insecurity and addressing reported irregularities in government programmes.
No arrests were reported during the meeting.