Residents of Nansana are living in fear following a wave of nighttime thefts that has shaken the community and prompted urgent calls for tighter security.
The latest incident occurred in the early hours in Nansana East 1B, where suspected thieves broke into three shops by cutting through iron sheets and roofing materials. The criminals made off with laptops, mobile phones, and other valuables.
A landlord who declined to appear on camera due to safety concerns said the thieves struck at around 5am.
“I was alerted by people who saw them. They even threw stones at the windows to scare anyone who might raise an alarm,” he said.
Security personnel and police responded and began investigations into how the suspects gained entry. A police sniffer dog was deployed to track the culprits, but efforts were unsuccessful after reports indicated the thieves escaped in a taxi.
Matthew Kalungi, a resident, expressed alarm over the rising crime rate and called for the revival of community security meetings.
“We are living in fear. Police should bring back security meetings so we can work together to protect our community,” Kalungi said.
Area defense secretary Male Umaru blamed persistent crime on weak judicial enforcement.
“Many criminals are arrested, but the courts do not punish them firmly. They return to the streets and continue terrorizing residents,” Umaru said.
Local leaders also cited the weakening of Local Council committees as a contributing factor and urged closer cooperation between law enforcement and residents.
Charles Lwanga, the Resident District Commissioner of Nansana, urged residents to strengthen personal security measures.
“People must remain vigilant, lock doors properly, and install CCTV cameras where possible,” he advised.
He reassured the public that authorities are handling the matter and warned young people against engaging in criminal activities.
“We are taking this seriously, and those involved in crime will face the law,” he added.
Local leaders and residents hope that the renewed focus on security will help restore safety and confidence in the community.
