Jinja: In a significant achievement, the Kiira region has been ranked as the most effective in crime prevention within the Busoga sub-region, according to intelligence estimates.
The region’s dedicated joint security operations, monitoring, and evaluation efforts have resulted in a notable reduction in violent crimes, including armed robberies and organized crime.
Speaking during the Regional Joint Operations Command meeting on Wednesday, February 26, 2025, at the Jinja City Council chambers, Kiira Regional Police Commander (RPC), SSP Charles Nsaba, emphasized the importance of intelligence-led operations and cautioned against mass arrests.
“We are against mass arrests. Your performance is not judged by the number of arrests you make, as indiscriminate arrests tarnish the reputation of both the police and the government,” Afande Nsaba told his officers.
He also provided updates on security developments and reaffirmed the commitment of the joint security team to enhancing intelligence-driven operations to prevent and combat crime.
The meeting highlighted a 62-case decrease in crime in 2024 compared to 2023, a milestone attributed to effective collaboration between security agencies, local leaders, and the community. SP James Mubi, the regional spokesperson,commended the community’s role in ensuring a safer environment.
“The people of the Kiira region can take pride in this achievement, knowing that their region is now safer and more secure,” Mubi stated.
Jinja City Resident City Commissioner (RCC), Mr. Richard Gulume, stressed the importance of intelligence sharing in combating violent crimes such as terrorism, armed robbery, human trafficking, and torture. He also vowed to address the issue of marijuana cultivation in Butiki and Kagogwa areas while urging security forces to maintain professionalism during the electoral process.
Meanwhile, Jinja Resident District Commissioner (RDC), Mr. Michael Kibwika, underscored the role of coordination in effective policing.
“Without proper coordination, policing efforts would be hindered, ultimately affecting the quality of service to the public,”Kibwika said.
He also cautioned against the spread of hate speech and propaganda targeting security personnel and the government, particularly on social media platforms like TikTok and radio stations, warning that such actions erode trust between law enforcement and the public.
The Regional CID Officer, SSP Monday Johnson Agaba, warned against the formation of radicalized groups, commonly known as “Gaali,” by politicians seeking power.
“Anyone found involved in such activities will face the full force of the law, without exception or bias,” Agaba stated, reaffirming authorities’ commitment to maintaining law and order.
According to the Annual Crime Report (ACR) 2024, the region recorded 4,093 cases in 2024, down from 4,155 in 2023. Agaba attributed this decline to targeted efforts in combating crimes such as defilement, rape, land disputes, aggravated torture, economic crimes, and hate speech.
He also acknowledged the police dog unit for its crucial role in capital offense cases, providing vital evidence that strengthened prosecution efforts.
According to SP Marble Asingwire, the Regional Traffic Officer, Uganda’s roads are most dangerous between Friday and Monday, with Sundays being the deadliest day.
The Annual Crime Traffic Report reveals a 60.8% probability of road fatalities during this period, primarily due to reckless driving, speeding, and alcohol-impaired driving.
While fatal accidents along the Jinja-Kamuli road have decreased, the Jinja-Iganga highway has seen a concerning rise in accidents, particularly between Wanyange and Wandago in Mayuge district.
To address these issues, Asingwire emphasized the need for stricter enforcement, increased community engagement, and harsher penalties, including custodial sentences, for reckless drivers. These measures aim to reduce road fatalities and promote a safer driving culture across Uganda.
