During the festive season in Teso, assault emerged as the most prevalent crime, according to Police reports. In East Kyoga, authorities recorded 60 assault cases from December 24 to 29, 2023. Following closely was general theft, with 43 cases, including six incidents of cattle theft. Domestic violence ranked third, with 20 cases registered.
John Robert Tukei, the East Kyoga Police region spokesperson, shared these statistics from their regional offices in Soroti city. However, Rose Atim Arimo, the Police region officer-in-charge of the Child and Family Protection Unit, highlighted that some domestic violence cases might not have been reported to the Police.
Attributing domestic violence to various factors, Atim mentioned drug abuse, excessive alcohol consumption, peer influence, gambling, betting, multiple relationships, and separation. She also pointed to a lack of counseling, rumor-mongering, lack of respect, and poor upbringing of children as contributing factors.
Atim urged the community to avoid triggers of domestic violence and issued a warning to men engaging in rumor-mongering, emphasizing the importance of peace in their homes.
Damalie Nachuha, the Regional Police commander, disclosed that approximately 153 suspected criminals rounded up during Christmas have been remanded to prison. She noted that these operations are ongoing to maintain public safety.
