Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Uganda Monitor
Published on 2024-04-12 07:37:48
The police in Kayunga District are currently investigating a series of thefts targeting transformers and electricity transmission cables in the area. Ms. Rosette Sikahwa, the Kayunga District police commander, revealed to the Monitor that one of the newly installed transformers in Mataba village in Kayunga Sub County was stolen, causing panic among residents. Fortunately, the suspects and the stolen transformer were tracked, leading to its recovery and reinstallation in Namutumba District, where it had been sold by the vandals.
According to Ms. Sikahwa, security intelligence indicated that an unidentified businessman in Namutumba paid Shs24m to acquire a transformer. However, instead of purchasing it legitimately, the individual stole it from Mataba village and delivered it to the buyer. By the time law enforcement authorities intervened, the transformer had already been installed. Additionally, four villages in the district, including Kyanta, Bukujju, and Nalweweta in Kayunga Sub-County, have been plunged into darkness following the theft of ABC cables worth millions of shillings.
The modus operandi of the thieves involves targeting cables in remote areas and exploiting power outages to carry out their criminal activities. In a single night, approximately a kilometer’s worth of ABC cables was stolen. Ms. Sikahwa emphasized that the theft of electricity equipment has become a significant challenge in the district, underscoring the need for increased vigilance among local leaders, security forces, and residents to combat the menace. Currently, one individual and two lorry trucks suspected of involvement in the theft ring are detained at Kayunga central police station.
According to information from Umeme, a 1,000-meter roll of ABC cables fetches Shs20m in the open market. Authorities and Umeme officials attribute the rising incidents of theft of electricity equipment to laid-off Umeme employees who may be using their knowledge of the system to carry out these illegal activities.
The authorities have intensified efforts to crack down on these criminal activities and safeguard the electricity infrastructure in Kayunga District. The collaboration between the police, Umeme, and local communities is crucial in securing these vital resources and ensuring uninterrupted power supply to residents. The public is urged to report any suspicious activities related to the theft of electricity equipment to the authorities promptly.
In conclusion, the theft of transformers and electricity transmission cables in Kayunga District poses a significant threat to the reliability of the power grid and the safety of residents. By working together and remaining vigilant, the community can help deter these criminal activities and maintain a secure and stable electricity supply for all.
Read the original article on Uganda Monitor
