AMOS K
Residents of Nyarushanje Sub-county in Rukungiri District have expressed growing concern over the increasing incidents of theft in their area.
One resident, who preferred to remain anonymous, stated that they can no longer sleep peacefully at night as they must stay awake to protect their property. He emphasized that theft has become rampant, with everything from animals to foodstuffs being stolen at any time. He also criticized the government, saying it has failed to provide adequate security in the sub-county.
Furthermore, he pointed out that many of the perpetrators are educated but unemployed youth struggling to survive, blaming the government for an ineffective education system that does not create job opportunities.
Barnabas Diingi, the councilor for Nyarushanje Parish, confirmed that theft has reached alarming levels, with livestock, matoke, and other valuables frequently being stolen. According to Diingi, unemployment is a major cause of the rising crime rate. He also criticized some local leaders for failing to report criminals due to fear of retaliation.
Diingi further accused the police of inefficiency, stating that even when thieves are arrested, they are released within a short time without facing any penalties. He revealed that, due to insecurity, many residents have resorted to keeping their animals inside their homes for safety.
In response, Michael Musiime, the LC3 chairperson of Nyarushanje Sub-county, acknowledged that the issue is not limited to Nyarushanje but also affects neighboring sub-counties. He blamed the situation on the government’s delayed programs, particularly the failure to hold elections for LC1 and LC2 chairpersons.
He noted that these local council leaders are responsible for security at the village level, but many of them are either too old, have migrated, or have passed away. This leadership gap has contributed to insecurity and the increasing cases of theft.
