Unknown assailants raided the Karujubu Police post in Karujubu Division, Masindi Municipality, in the early hours of Tuesday, making off with equipment belonging to the National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA).
According to reports gathered by Uganda Radio Network (URN), the thieves broke into the police post at around 3 a.m., stealing three laptops, a bag containing NIRA documents, extension cables, three batteries, and other valuables.
It remains unclear whether police officers deployed to the post were present at the time of the raid. However, two officers have since been arrested and charged with neglect of duty, said Julius Hakiza, Albertine Region Police spokesperson. The officers, whose identities have not been disclosed, are currently detained at Masindi Central Police Station.
Hakiza has urged the public to provide any information that could help recover the stolen items and apprehend those responsible.
Solomon Asiimwe, the LC III Chairperson for Karujubu Division, expressed concern that the theft of the laptops could disrupt the ongoing renewal of national identity cards in the area and called for urgent intervention by NIRA.
According to Asiimwe, the division has been experiencing a surge in thefts, with some criminals targeting residents during the night. He has called on the district security committee to strengthen security by increasing night patrols to curb the rising incidents.
Julius Isingoma, Town Clerk of Karujubu Division, explained that the thieves also attempted to break into the office of the accountant but were unsuccessful after failing to dismantle the padlock.
Suzan Nabunje Kiyengo, the district NIRA registrar, confirmed the incident but declined to provide further details, stating that the matter is under police investigation.
The theft has sparked concerns over the security of sensitive government operations in the division and the broader implications for public services in Masindi Municipality.
***URN***