Dokolo Resident District Commissioner (RDC), Babra Akech, has called on Local Council leaders and security stakeholders in Adeknino Sub-County to heighten vigilance ahead of the festive season, warning that criminal activities, particularly theft, tend to escalate during this period.
Akech made the call yesterday while addressing LC I and LC II chairpersons, Parish Chiefs, Area Councillors and other stakeholders during a security meeting held at Adeknino Sub-County Hall.
She expressed concern over the increasing involvement of unemployed youths in criminal activities as the festive season approaches, noting that some individuals have already started engaging in suspicious movements at night in search of what she described as means of survival.
Akech urged local leaders to remain alert, strengthen community surveillance and work closely with security agencies to prevent criminals from taking advantage of the festive season to disrupt peace and security.
Mr. Okaka Denis, Chairperson of LC I Chairpersons in Adeknino Sub-County, reported that most theft suspects are residents of the area, a situation he said has made the fight against crime increasingly challenging.
He expressed concern over the alleged lack of decisive action against individuals repeatedly implicated in theft cases and appealed to security agencies to support local leaders in addressing the vice.
Okaka further revealed that during a recent village meeting, residents resolved to impose a penalty of UGX 500,000 on anyone caught stealing as a measure to deter criminal activities.
Representing the LC II Chairpersons, Mr. Achol Franchisco, LC II Chairperson of Adwongowor Parish, proposed increased security patrols, particularly whenever cases of theft are reported, saying this would enable security personnel to respond promptly and apprehend suspected criminals.
Meanwhile, Adeknino Sub-County LC III Chairperson, Oleli Michael, attributed the rampant theft cases partly to the growing consumption and cultivation of marijuana in the area, arguing that substance abuse has contributed to insecurity within the community.
The Sub-County’s Gombolola Internal Security Officer, Mr. Steven Ojota, also raised concern over the increasing theft of domestic animals and birds, calling for stronger collaboration between security personnel and local leaders to address the problem.
On the other hand, Adeknino Police Station Officer-in-Charge (OC), Mr. Nyago Anthony, identified Awelo Parish as one of the most affected areas, according to their security assessment.
He accused some local leaders in the parish of failing to cooperate with security agencies, alleging that some leaders conceal information about suspected offenders despite knowing those involved in theft cases.
Nyago warned that such practices undermine efforts to combat crime and pledged that police would intensify their operations until the theft problem is addressed.
The meeting comes amid growing concerns over theft in Adeknino Sub-County, with security leaders calling for stronger community cooperation, timely reporting of criminal activities and increased security patrols to safeguard residents and their property during the approaching festive season.