Officials from the Uganda police force have this morning met with business leaders of Kisekka market to forge a way of stopping unending riots in down town Kampala.
The team led by Kampala Metropolitan Police Commander CP. Moses Kafeero Kabugo and Commandant Military Police Col. William Bainomugisha met the business leaders at Emerald Hotel.
They discussed issues regarding the origin and possible solutions to riots in Kampala and it surroundings.
During the deliberations, CP. Kafeero stressed the need to work together in order to develop ideas which deal not only with the symptoms of the riots but with the deep-seated causes of dissatisfaction beneath.
The KMP commander told participants that riots are against laws and have a negative impact on the economy, stressing that burning tyres could cause arson on their business and should be avoided.
The meeting was under the theme; “Building strong, resilient and a thriving local community where no one feels the urge to take such destructive actions ever again.”
From November 2017 to date, it is estimated that hundreds of people have actively participated in the riots, while more than 200 suspected rioters have been arrested some were already known to the police.
Police research indicates that most riots are comprised of organized criminals who are often from outside the area, violent aggressors; pick pockets who deliberately travel to riot sites in order to loot, opportunists who are drawn into
riot areas through curiosity or a sense of excitement and spectators who come just to watch the rioting.
Business leaders however said it was crucial that the police rebuild her image and trust arguing that this could be done by ensuring plans are in place to deal with the risk of future disturbances, pursuing people who commit the crimes during the riots and supporting members of Kiseeka Community as they rebuild their businesses.
The Kampala Metropolitan Commander said that as a consequence of these riots, the police in Kampala have begun a review of their tactics on how to handle future riots which includes community engagement.
Mr. Kafeero assured the business community that inter-agency coordination among security agencies is solid and will continue to be so in order to maintain the existing peace.
Col. William Bainomugisha, Commadant Military Police said while security is everybody’s responsibility, those who run public buildings like malls, arcades etc are expected to be responsible for the security of their clients and those they serve in partnership with Security Agencies.
"Everyone has a stake in ensuring security in our country," Col. Bainomugisha said.
He urged Kisekka market business Community to support police, be vigilant and report any suspected persons to the concerned security agencies.
