In a strange incident in Jinja, suspected thieves faced fatal consequences from police officers at Gadaffi Police Barracks. A confidential source from within the barracks revealed that on January 29, 2024, thieves targeted the home of a police officer on night duty. After stealing some items and returning the next day, their criminal activities were cut short when the homeowner caught one thief, resulting in their death due to mob action. Two other accomplices were subsequently arrested and are currently held at CPS Jinja.
James Mubi, the Kiira Region Police spokesperson, remained noncommittal when questioned about the mob action within the barracks. Our investigation found that both the deceased and the suspects are sons of police personnel. Several police residents, speaking anonymously, expressed concern over the escalating incidents of theft and burglary.
“We are witnessing house break-ins almost every week, and the situation is worsening,” lamented one police officer. Another officer pointed out that thieves often target colleagues on night duty, especially during significant events and weekends when all personnel are deployed in and around Jinja.
Criticism was directed at the OC Police Barracks for permitting civilians to gather within the barracks during the daytime. Officers questioned the wisdom of allowing strangers to be present in the barracks throughout the day. The barracks, situated on a sprawling 100-acre land, lacks a perimeter fence, providing thieves with easy access.
“We urgently need a perimeter wall like our neighbors in the UPDF,” insisted a concerned police constable. The absence of CCTV cameras further compounds security concerns, and even the deployed night guards struggle to secure the extensive barracks, comparable in size to a village.
Additionally, it was noted that some police officers leave their families behind when transferred to distant stations. This situation leads to families remaining in the barracks, contributing to overall insecurity, as highlighted by one officer: “Children of transferred officers who refuse to relocate become a source of insecurity in the barracks.”
In summary, the call for enhanced security measures, including a perimeter wall and CCTV cameras, resonates among police personnel residing in the barracks, as they grapple with ongoing security challenges.
Informative