Security leaders in Arua City have urged community members to actively participate in efforts to combat insecurity by sharing timely and accurate information.
They emphasize that locals, who are well-acquainted with their neighborhoods, are crucial in identifying wrongdoers and preventing crime.
Speaking on the matter, Collins Asea, the West Nile Police Spokesperson, acknowledged that the relative peace in Arua City is largely due to the cooperation between security teams and community members. However, he emphasized the need for continued support.
"The security situation improves when residents willingly share intelligence about suspicious activities. They know the people living among them, and their input is invaluable in crime prevention," Asea noted.
Last year, Arua City witnessed a surge in criminal activities, with cases of theft, robbery, and assault dominating police records.
Some of these crimes have triggered mob justice, leading to the death of several suspected thieves.
Despite a national decrease in reported crimes by 4.1% from 228,074 cases in 2023 to 218,715 in 2024 Arua City has experienced a troubling surge in mob justice incidents.
In April 2024, three suspected thieves were killed by mobs in the Ediofe area within a two-week span . Additionally, in November 2024, the acting District Health Officer, Mr. Paul Bishop Drileba, was tragically killed by a mob over a land dispute .
Efforts by security agencies, law enforcement alone has not been enough to completely address the problem. This has prompted security leaders to advocate for a community-driven approach to crime reduction.
Arua Resident City Commissioner, Salim Kumaketch, reaffirmed his commitment to improving the city’s security but insisted that success depends on collective efforts from all stakeholders.
"Security is not just the responsibility of the police or the army. It requires all of us—leaders, law enforcement, and the community—to work together to create a safer environment," Kumaketch stated.
Maj. George Okello, the Commander of the Uganda People’s Defense Forces (UPDF) 55th Battalion in Arua, highlighted that merely increasing security deployments would not be as effective as encouraging community participation.
"We cannot station officers on every street or corner of the city. The best solution is to have residents take an active role in safeguarding their own communities," Maj Okello said.
To reinforce this initiative, the security team, led by the Uganda Police Force, plans to strengthen community policing.
This approach will help educate locals about their responsibilities in crime prevention while fostering stronger relationships between residents and security personnel.
The leaders remain hopeful that with enhanced community vigilance and cooperation, Arua City will see a significant decline in crime rates, making it a safer place for all.