By KT Reporter
Joint security operatives have intercepted 13 minors from Napak District who were attempting to travel to the Teso sub-region in search of casual labour. The group, comprising nine females and four males, was intercepted on Wednesday afternoon at the Olilim security checkpoint while walking on foot to various locations in Teso.
Mike Longole, the Mt. Moroto Regional Police Spokesperson, confirmed the incident, stating that the children had already crossed into Katakwi District at the time of interception. According to Longole, the children revealed that they were heading to the Teso sub-region to seek casual employment.
“The operation was conducted by joint security forces, including the Uganda Police Force, Uganda People’s Defence Forces, and other agencies, at the Olilim checkpoint.
The juveniles were safely returned to Napak and are currently under protective custody,” Longole explained. He emphasized that the successful operation demonstrates the commitment of security agencies to protecting children’s rights and combating child labour. “We urge parents and guardians to prioritize the safety and well-being of their children and to report any cases of child labour or exploitation to the nearest police station,” Longole reiterated.
Despite ongoing efforts by authorities to rescue and repatriate street children, Napak District continues to experience a high number of children escaping to urban centres, especially Kampala. In the past two weeks alone, at least 24 children have been intercepted while attempting to return to the streets. A report from the Napak District Local Government estimates that approximately 4,000 children from the region are currently living on the streets of urban centres, particularly in Kampala and Nairobi, Kenya-URN. Give us feedback on this story through our email: kamwokyatimes@gmail.com
