Rédaction Africa Links 24 with The Observer
Published on 2024-02-01 07:23:25
Police and military forces have successfully apprehended 20 suspected vandals accused of damaging road furniture along the Northern bypass. The operation involved deploying covert personnel, later reinforced by uniformed police officers and soldiers in the Masanafu and Busega areas, where the highest incidents of vandalism have been recorded. The most affected road furniture includes road guards, security camera poles, and signposts.
The operation began with the apprehension of Umar Kitimbo, who not only confessed to participating in road furniture vandalism but also cooperated with investigators by leading them to his accomplices. Kitimbo implicated Jonan Abigaba, an employee of Katooke Metal Scrap, stating, “We sell whatever we vandalize to these people. Some of our colleagues are Lubigi, and Abigaba knows them.” Subsequently, the joint efforts of the police and military led to the apprehension of several suspects, including Obedi, Eric Sanyu, John Obama, Junior Ainembazi, Bashir Kalangi, Wilson Muhumuza, and Rashid Mpugu. Additional suspects were also identified by the deputy Kampala Metropolitan police spokesperson, Luke Owoyesigyire, as Edward Byabashaija, Paddy Ssebunya, Monday Mukasa, Erasto Kagada, Shaban Mugarsi, Emmanuel Sande, Arinaitwe Muwamadani, and Evelyn Mujuni.
The authorities have expressed concern over the substantial costs incurred in restoring vandalized and damaged road furniture along the Northern bypass. Allen Kagina, executive director of the Uganda National Roads Authority (UNRA), urged drivers and residents living along the Northern bypass to actively participate in protecting the road furniture, emphasizing their installation for proper road use and prevention of accidents.
Owoyesigyire stated that the arrested suspects face charges related to damaging public property. It was also noted that Kisenyi is a known center where vandalized road furniture, electric wires, and angle bars are sold as scrap. The collaborative efforts aim to curb such incidents and maintain public infrastructure integrity.
The joint operation between the police and military serves as a significant step in addressing the issue of road furniture vandalism along the Northern bypass. The apprehension of 20 suspected vandals, including individuals involved in the sale of vandalized materials, demonstrates a strong commitment to maintaining the integrity of public infrastructure. The authorities have made it clear that they will continue to investigate and carry out operations to prevent further incidents of damaging and vandalizing road furniture, security rights, and signals.
The successful operation is a testament to the dedication and cooperation between law enforcement agencies and the military in addressing criminal activities that threaten public infrastructure and safety. It sends a clear message to potential vandals and those involved in the illegal sale of vandalized materials that their actions will not be tolerated, and they will be held accountable for their crimes.
In conclusion, the joint efforts of the police and military in apprehending suspected vandals along the Northern bypass have resulted in a significant step towards maintaining the integrity of public infrastructure. With continued investigation and operations, the authorities aim to prevent further incidents of road furniture vandalism and uphold the safety and security of the community.
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