MUGABE R
Christians of Nyakagyeme Church of Uganda Parish in Nyakagyeme Sub-county, Rukungiri District, are in shock following a break-in that occurred on the night of August 2nd, during which thieves stole valuable church items and vandalized school property.
According to reports, unknown suspects gained access to the church premises, stealing items including a laptop computer, an amplifier, and wine used during worship services. The same night, the office of the head teacher of Nyakagyeme Primary School was also broken into, with several scholastic materials destroyed.
The parish priest, Rev. Caleb Karabamu, condemned the act as ungodly and called on the perpetrators to return to the fear of God. He also urged the government to increase protection for religious institutions that serve communities with peace and wisdom.
Kiconco Rossette, the church warden, said Sunday’s worship service was dull and affected due to the stolen instruments, which play a key role in their praise and worship sessions.
Baguma Bernard, Chairperson of the Fathers’ Union and PTA Nyakagyeme Primary School, blamed the rise in theft on growing unemployment among youth in the area. He appealed to the government to address youth unemployment as a measure to curb rising crime.
Isaac Mugarura, a lay leader at the church, criticized the proliferation of bars that operate day and night, attracting criminals and sex workers. He called on authorities to regulate such establishments to reduce crime.
Local Council Chairperson Nabaasa Darius expressed deep concern over the growing cases of theft in the area, attributing it to the large number of idle and jobless youth. He urged police to intensify patrols and arrest those behind the rising criminal activity.
Rukungiri District Police Commander SSP Kyangungu Apollo confirmed that investigations are underway, with documentation of the crime scene complete. He assured the public that efforts are ongoing to identify and apprehend the culprits.
