KAMPALA- The Police have appealed to the general public to be cautious and avoid sharing their travel plans on social media. As the festive season approaches, many people take to social media to share their plans to visit their villages and celebrate with loved ones. However, the police have issued a warning; citing a surge in housebreaking cases during the festive season, often targeting homes believed to be vacant.
The Uganda Police Force has warned the public to be cautious when sharing their travel plans on social media. According to ACP Kituuma Rusoke, Police Spokesperson, thugs are now using social media platforms to track and target their victims. “As we approach Christmas and the New Year, I advise the public to be cautious. During this festive season, there’s increased alcohol consumption, outings, and partying, which attracts thugs. Unfortunately, this leads to a surge in criminal cases, including theft, housebreakings, domestic violence, and assaults.” – Kituuma.
According to Kituuma, most cases of break-ins and burglaries are a result of homeowners leaving their homes unattended, while others inadvertently advertise their absence by sharing their daily activities on social media platforms. “We have individuals who leave their homes and then, upon arriving in villages, take pictures with their families and post them on social media. However, thugs often track their victims’ every move; they are your followers on social media. These criminals then break into the empty homes, and the owners will discover the theft until they return the following year.” Rusoke said.
He added: “Some individuals even post updates when they leave the country for vacations, inadvertently alerting thugs to break into their homes. Kituuma cautioned, ‘Please be vigilant and refrain from posting your movements. The police have also warned event organizers to refrain from using fireworks or explosives to celebrate the New Year without obtaining prior security clearance.
“We have some individuals intending to display fireworks must obtain permission from the IGP office. Once approved, they must advertise their plans in mainstream media. Furthermore, fireworks materials must be purchased from licensed vendors and undergo inspection. We have experienced incidents where fireworks were discharged for extended periods, up to 20 minutes, which is unacceptable and poses risks,” Rusoke added.
Police spokesperson, has emphasized that all fireworks materials must undergo inspection and be stored under the custody of the Counterterrorism Police. Event organizers have also been advised to obtain necessary clearances from other regulatory authorities, including KCCA, NEMA, and other relevant bodies.
At least nine people were killed during a stampede at Freedom City Mall in Kampala as revellers ushered in the New Year of 2023, during festivities. The incident occurred at midnight when the event’s emcee encouraged the attendees to move outside and witness the fire wax displays.
