Rédaction Africa Links 24 with The Observer
Published on 2024-04-11 09:09:06
A Rwandan national, Alphonse Shirmak, was arrested after being found vandalizing and plucking off a street solar panel along Jackson Road in Central Division, Kabale municipality. The incident took place on Wednesday morning at around 5 am near the National Social Security Fund (NSSF) Kabale branch, as reported by Joseph Bakaleke, Kabale district police commander.
Shirmak was caught in the act by police officers who were on a night patrol and witnessed him attempting to remove the solar panel from a pole. Upon realizing that his actions had been discovered, Shirmak, who was waiting on a boda boda, quickly fled the scene. He is currently detained at Kabale police station and will be facing charges of vandalism and theft once investigations are completed.
The vandalism of solar panels is a recurring issue in Kabale, with a total of 17 cases reported recently across various divisions. Following the commissioning of the Shs 1.9 billion solar street lights project under the Uganda Support to Municipal Infrastructure Development (USMID) program, Kabale district security authorities have recommended the immediate neutralization of vandals.
The prevalence of such incidents highlights the importance of protecting public infrastructure and ensuring the accountability of individuals who engage in criminal activities. It is crucial for law enforcement agencies to actively investigate and prosecute those involved in vandalism and theft to uphold the safety and integrity of public amenities like solar street lights.
Efforts to curb such crimes require collaboration between authorities, community members, and relevant stakeholders to enhance security measures and deter potential offenders. The installation of surveillance systems and the implementation of stricter penalties for offenders can serve as deterrents and contribute to reducing the occurrence of vandalism incidents in the future.
In conclusion, the arrest of Alphonse Shirmak for vandalizing a street solar panel in Kabale serves as a reminder of the persistent challenges faced in protecting public infrastructure from criminal activities. It underscores the need for enhanced security measures, community vigilance, and swift law enforcement actions to address and prevent such incidents effectively. By holding individuals accountable for their actions and promoting a culture of respect for public property, communities can strive towards maintaining a safe and sustainable environment for all residents.
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