By KT Reporter
As the festive season approaches, the police have cautioned citizens against sharing their travel plans on social media, warning of increased housebreakings targeting seemingly vacant homes.
In a Christmas message, Police Spokesperson Kituuma Rusoke highlighted a surge in criminal activities during this period, often fueled by heightened celebrations and excessive alcohol consumption.
“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,” said Kituuma.
Kituuma explained that criminals often track homeowners’ movements on social media. Many unsuspecting individuals post updates, such as family pictures or details of their travel plans, inadvertently alerting burglars to their absence.
“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. Please be vigilant and refrain from posting your movements.” The police also issued strict guidelines for event organizers planning to use fireworks or explosives during New Year celebrations.
“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.
Rusoke emphasized that all fireworks materials must undergo inspection and be stored under the custody of the Counter-terrorism Police. Event organizers have also been advised to obtain necessary clearances from other regulatory authorities, including KCCA, NEMA, and other relevant bodies.
The caution comes in light of the tragic stampede at Freedom City Mall in Kampala on New Year’s Eve 2023, where nine people lost their lives. The incident occurred at midnight when an emcee encouraged attendees to move outside to view fireworks, leading to a chaotic and deadly rush-URN. Give us feedback on this story through our email: kamwokyatimes@gmail.com
