Residents of Nyakanengo, Bugarama, Nyakigugwe, Kaharo, and neighboring areas in Kabale District have expressed growing concerns over a surge in theft, attributing the crimes to unknown individuals suspected of drug abuse.
Led by community members Alex Asiimwe, Samuel Niwasasira, and Charles Mutabazi, the residents reported that thieves, allegedly under the influence of Playing cards, gambling in the trading centres, drugs like marijuana, have made it impossible for people to sleep peacefully while their properties are being stolen.
The residents argued that the persistent theft has stalled the development of the area, with the increase in criminal activities cited as a major hindrance. Some residents blamed local leaders for their lack of participation in addressing the issue. They noted that many leaders fail to attend security meetings when called upon to find solutions to the problem.
These concerns were raised during a security meeting held at Kaharo Trading Center in Kaharo Sub-County, Ndorwa East, Kabale District yesterday. The meeting was chaired by Kabale Resident District Commissioner (RDC) Godfrey Nyakahuma, who responded to the residents’ repeated calls for help. Residents believe that individuals engaged in gambling and drug abuse, such as smoking marijuana, are primarily behind the thefts in Nyakanengo, Bugarama, Nyakigugwe, Kaharo, and surrounding areas.
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In his remarks, RDC Godfrey Nyakahuma urged leaders in the sub-county to prioritize security meetings to identify and address wrongdoers within the community. He vowed to take decisive action against anyone sabotaging efforts to arrest suspects. Nyakahuma emphasized that theft undermines government programs and projects, assuring residents that the government is committed to ensuring their safety and security.
He strongly condemned the acts of theft in the district, noting that community thieves are also saboteurs of government initiatives such as the recently introduced Parish Development Model (PDM). The PDM, a presidential initiative, aims to uplift residents living below the poverty line by providing resources for both crop and animal production. Nyakahuma stressed that individuals stealing from these projects are depriving the community of the benefits they are meant to receive.
However, he also called for individual vigilance, reminding residents that security begins at a personal level.
“Security begins with you,” RDC Nyakahuma urged the community. “Be vigilant with your lives and property.”
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RDC Nyakahuma further warned that individuals obstructing efforts to arrest the culprits would face consequences, reiterating the need for collective efforts to maintain peace and order in the area.
