The construction of five newly erected police uniports in Bukaya East and Bukaya West villages, Njeru Municipality, Buikwe District, intended to address accommodation challenges for police officers, has taken an unexpected turn. The uniports, meant to house at least ten personnel each, have been abandoned and repurposed as sex dens, raising concerns among residents about the escalating insecurity in the area.
Bukaya West LC1 chairman, Mr. Jimmy Okee, expressed dismay over the misuse of the structures, highlighting that they have become shelters for criminals and venues for illicit activities. Instead of serving their intended purpose, the uniports are now being used for lodging during sexual encounters, as they remain unlocked and accessible.
During a security meeting last year, officers at Njeru Police Station were reportedly reminded of the abandoned uniports, but no concrete solution has been implemented to address the situation. Mr. Okee emphasized the challenges posed by the unutilized uniports, attracting various criminal activities and contributing to the deteriorating security conditions in the area.
The Ssezibwa Region Police Spokesperson, Ms. Hellen Butoto, acknowledged the existence of the uniports and clarified that they were initially designated for a Police Post. However, she noted that due to a shortage of personnel, Police Posts have been discontinued nationwide. Ms. Butoto assured that more information about the situation in Bukaya would be gathered and shared with residents.
Mr. Ernest Ssenyonjo, the Bukaya East LC1 chairman, highlighted additional challenges, such as the lack of essential amenities like pit latrines, water, and electricity in the vicinity. This, coupled with the absence of a Police Post, has deterred officers from occupying the uniports despite accommodation challenges in some barracks.
Concerned residents, including Mr. Charles Tooko and Mr. James Okiria, fear that the uniports may soon fall victim to vandalism by scrap dealers. They advocate for the relocation of these structures to a more suitable location where they can serve their intended purpose, rather than being left unused and susceptible to misuse.
