Security heightened in Teso

Kumi, Uganda | THE INDEPENDENT | Security has been heightened in the Teso sub-region. This follows the emergence of gangs who are terrorizing residents.

In Soroti, the group has been named Owok-wok (shake-shake). It is reported that members of the gang beat, rob and ensure that the victim has nothing left on them.

In Kumi and Bukedea districts, the group was named Ikok (the termites) because of the multiple attacks they would inflict on the victims. The Ikok gang attacks the victims leaving them unconscious or dead.

Another gang targeting women emerged in Serere district about three months ago. The group carries out attacks at night, especially among young girls, sometimes strangling them in their houses. This has left at least five women including students dead in a space of three months.

The incidents raised concerns from leaders and residents, calling for the deployment of the army to back up the police.

Edison Obukulem, the East Kyoga Regional Police Spokesman says that at least 46 people were arrested and brought to court in Serere last week while another group of more than 50 people was netted in Soroti city.

He said that the majority of the suspects in Soroti City pleaded guilty to charges and were sentenced to fines and community services.

According to Obukulem, the deployment of soldiers is timely and will help to curb crimes.

The Soroti Resident City Commissioner (RCC), Peter Pex Paak says that they have intensified operations including night patrols to ensure that all the wrong elements are arrested and produced in court.

*****

URN