Residents of Pakwach Town Council are counting losses after an unknown number of thieves reportedly broke into more than ten households across different villages in the early hours of Tuesday morning.
The suspected break-ins occurred between midnight and dawn, with victims reporting the loss of various household items. Commonly stolen property included smartphones, cash, new clothing, solar batteries, radios, and other portable valuables.
James Kizza, a resident of Kamana B Cell, said he first overheard voices in his neighbourhood before being alerted that his own house had been targeted. The thieves reportedly took a Samsung Galaxy A04 smartphone, a radio receiver, and Shs150,000 in cash from his home.
Another victim, Brenda Akello, also of Kamana B, said she woke around 4 a.m. to find her doors open and belongings scattered. Akello reported losing Shs1.1 million, recently received as salary, along with her smartphone. Some of her property was later found abandoned on the veranda.
The Gombolola Internal Security Officer (GISO) of Pakwach Town Council, Alfred Obedmoth, was also affected. He said thieves stole his smartphone, Shs370,000 belonging to him, and Shs700,000 belonging to his wife. Some stolen items from his home and neighbouring households were later discovered dumped together in a washroom. Obedmoth said he noticed an unusual smell before going to sleep but only realised what had happened after being forcefully awakened.
Pakwach District Community Liaison Officer (CLO), Dominic Owinjuru, confirmed that more than twelve cases have been reported at Pakwach Central Police Station. He said police have deployed a sniffer dog, which led to the arrest of four suspects, all believed to be local residents. Investigations into the incidents are ongoing.
Owinjuru further cautioned residents against leaving doors or windows open at night, a common practice during dry seasons due to excessive heat. He urged the community to remain vigilant and take extra security precautions during the festive season.
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