There's a huge price to pay for illegal power connections - Police

The Uganda Police Force has issued a warning to the public about the dangers and legal consequences of illegal power connections following a rise in violence against government workers enforcing the law.

Police Spokesperson ACP Kituuma Rusoke highlighted the severe risks of illegal connections, including electrocution, fires, and broader community safety concerns.

ACP Rusoke urged residents to comply with legal electricity usage regulations to protect themselves and their communities.

He emphasized that the risks associated with illegal connections are grave, often leading to tragic incidents and fatalities.

This warning follows a series of violent incidents in the Busoga East Region, where community members attacked police officers and Umeme staff during operations targeting illegal electricity connections.

On August 17, 2024, in Mayuge Town Council, police and Umeme officials arrested four suspects, including Matovu Iga, who was allegedly responsible for connecting illegal users.

The arrests sparked outrage among local residents, who blocked roads, vandalized vehicles, and assaulted police officers in defense of illegal activities.

ACP Rusoke condemned these attacks, stressing that government workers are acting in the public interest to ensure safety.

Rusoke also called for greater community cooperation and support in combating illegal electricity connections.

He underscored the urgent need for awareness, as recent tragic incidents further highlight the dangers of illegal power connections.

In the Kiira Region, police are investigating the electrocution of 48-year-old Hadija Isooba Nalugonda, who died after stepping on an illegally connected open electric wire in her garden.

Another fatality occurred on August 18, 2024, when Agnes Birungi was electrocuted while hanging clothes on a wire at her home in Kimwanyi Zone, Kawempe Division, Kampala.

These incidents underscore the deadly consequences of illegal power connections. Rusoke urged residents to reject violence and support lawful efforts to ensure compliance with electricity regulations.

He emphasized the importance of community cooperation to protect lives and uphold the law.

In response to rising violence and ongoing dangers, the police have pledged to intensify efforts to combat illegal power connections and work closely with Umeme and other stakeholders to ensure public safety.

They warned that those caught engaging in illegal connections would face severe legal consequences, including arrest and prosecution.

A concerted effort from both authorities and the community is necessary to eliminate this dangerous practice and safeguard lives and property in Uganda.