Description

The security situation in the central part of Uganda especially in the greater Masaka region continues to deteriorate. In the November 2017 conflict assessment, the SAFE program reported how anonymous letters and leaflets were being disseminated around the region, threatening residents who were living in fear. Many residents had been robbed, beaten and others stabbed to death shortly after receiving the anonymous leaflets.
There had also been reported incidents of rape and arson. These endless attacks left many unanswered questions among the community and tension was very high. This month, five people including a retired senior police officer and his granddaughter were killed and there were attempts to behead a baby. Because of this insecurity, the President of Uganda –Yoweri Museveni visited the area to reassure the community. The Inspector General of Police Kale Kayihura has also pitched camp in the area and police has arrested a number prime suspects behind the attacks. To further mitigate the attacks, police has set up toll free lines at sub county level and intensified community policing in the region. The police have also encouraged neighborhood watch vigilance, registration of residents and patrolling of the areas. This insecurity in the greater Masaka region was also reported in SAFE’s April 2017 Conflict assessment when Members of Parliament (MPs) led by the Leader of Opposition Hon Winnie Kiiza tasked GOU to explain the high level of insecurity in the area. The SAFE program will continue monitoring the situation on the ground and also hopes that the new government initiatives will bring security to the area.