The outgoing Kigezi Regional Police Spokesperson, ASP Elly Maate, has challenged his successor, SP Nelson Tumushime, to strengthen community sensitization programmes aimed at addressing the rising cases of murder in the region as he officially handed over office.
Speaking during the handover ceremony held at the Kigezi Regional Police Headquarters in Kabale District on Friday, Maate noted that although he did not disclose specific statistics, murder cases have steadily increased during his 15 years of service in the region. He attributed the trend to domestic disputes, land conflicts, and drug abuse, among other factors.
Maate said that despite the growing challenge, the Police, working together with other stakeholders, have intensified efforts to curb crime through public sensitization campaigns, condemning criminal acts, and arresting suspects as a deterrent measure.
He emphasized that many perpetrators are fully aware of the consequences of their actions but still choose to engage in criminal activities despite continuous warnings and sensitization efforts.
Maate further noted that Police have consistently engaged communities through awareness programmes aimed at promoting peaceful coexistence and discouraging criminal behavior. He expressed optimism that if communities embrace positive behavioural change and collaborate closely with security agencies, murder cases and other crimes in the Kigezi sub-region could significantly reduce.
He urged his successor to prioritise community policing and strengthen sensitisation efforts as key strategies for tackling crime and fostering peace in the region.
CUE IN MAATE….ON THE MATTER…..RR/ENG//
The incoming Kigezi Regional Police Spokesperson, SP Nelson Tumushime, acknowledged that crime patterns vary across different regions, underscoring the need for a coordinated approach involving the media, security agencies, and other stakeholders to effectively combat criminal activities.
He pledged to build on the foundation laid by his predecessor and address pending security concerns in the region.
Speaking on the increasing crime rate in Kigezi, Tumushime noted that available data indicates crime remains a growing concern in the region. He revealed plans to strengthen the sub-county policing model as one of the strategies to curb criminal activities.
Tumushime said enhancing policing structures at the sub-county level would improve community security and help reduce crime across the region.
CUE IN SP TUMUSHIME…..ON THE MATTER…..RR/ENG//
Meanwhile, the Kigezi Regional Police Commander (RPC), Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Alex Wabwire, commended Maate for his professionalism and dedication to service, describing him as a reliable, disciplined, and knowledgeable officer.
Maate was transferred by the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Abas Byakagaba to the Rwenzori East Region in Kasese District.
He will replace SP Tumushime who has assumed office in the Kigezi Region in the same capacity.
