In a recent decision by the Bushenyi District Security Committee, it has been determined that the Uganda Peoples Defence Forces (UPDF) will be deployed to enhance security in the district. This decision comes in response to the discovery of handwritten leaflets, allegedly originating from the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), which were found in various schools within the Bushenyi District.
The leaflets were distributed in Kyamuhunga Secondary School, Kyamuhunga Central, and Kabingo Model Primary Schools, and they contained ominous warnings of impending attacks by the ADF if the schools failed to close within a two-week timeframe. Additionally, the leaflets threatened dire consequences for teachers and students who remained on the school premises beyond the specified deadline.
To address this concerning situation, the committee has devised a comprehensive security plan. This plan includes the implementation of continuous joint patrols involving both the police and UPDF personnel. Furthermore, checkpoints will be established on major urban and rural roads, residents will undergo screening procedures, and stringent access control measures will be enforced at public spaces and events.
Bushenyi Resident District Commissioner, Robert Atuhairwe, expressed optimism that the deployment of UPDF troops within the district will provide a significant boost to the existing police and private security teams, thereby ensuring the safety of all residents and vital installations. Nevertheless, he mentioned that the committee has not yet reached a consensus regarding the deployment of soldiers to schools, specifically at the school gates in collaboration with existing security personnel.
Atuhairwe disclosed that his office is presently drafting a set of regulations, which will be subsequently communicated to schools through the District Education Officer, with the intention of enhancing security at all educational institutions.
Marcial Tumusiime, the Greater Bushenyi Police Spokesperson, indicated that they have advised head teachers to establish communication channels with parents through the Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) and School Management Committees. This will be done while awaiting further guidelines from the office of the Resident District Commissioner.
Tumusiime also noted that a joint investigative team, composed of both police and UPDF personnel, has been deployed to ascertain the source of the threatening leaflets.
These developments follow a recent incident on October 17, during which three lives were tragically lost in an attack on a tourist van in Queen Elizabeth National Park in Kasese, believed to be carried out by suspected Allied Democratic Forces rebels.
