RUKUNGIRI – Authorities in Rukungiri District are sounding the alarm over a sharp increase in burglaries at schools, with thieves targeting high-value equipment including tailoring machines, computers, and lightning arrestors.
Senior Education Officer Anxious Gashanga described the situation as particularly worrying in Buyanja Sub-county, where several schools have suffered repeated break-ins.
“The safety of these gadgets is crucial—let’s work on the safety of our schools,” he said.
Deputy Chief Administrative Officer Hilary Agaba urged school leaders to prioritise security before installing costly equipment.
“If someone has the capacity to uproot a lightning arrestor, what of a computer? You must put security in your school area,” Agaba warned.
The Spokesperson for the Kigezi Region Police, Elly Maate, reminded school management that securing property is ultimately their responsibility.
“Whether you have a business or a school, you must have security. If you are there to prevent a break-in and it happens, then you are held responsible,” he said.
Dr Adrian Beinebyabo, from Buyanja My Roots, an organisation supporting education and other sectors in Rukungiri, called for practical preventive measures.
He urged schools to hire guards, install metallic doors and windows, and fit burglar-proofing to deter thieves.