Agago, Uganda – In a significant development for community safety, Agago District is set to receive a massive deployment of police officers across all sub-counties, authorities have confirmed. The announcement was made during an emergency meeting convened by District LCV Chairman Wilson Otto and addressed by Deputy Resident District Commissioner (RDC) Susan Akot Moro, who was representing the RDC, Nabinson Kidega Nok.
The deployment, which begins this Saturday, will see at least 15 police officers assigned to each of the district’s sub-counties, totaling over 200 officers. This move is part of the government’s broader Sub-County Policing System initiative, a vision championed by the President of Uganda to bring law enforcement closer to communities.
Security Breakthrough After Lobbying Efforts
LCV Chairman Wilson Otto expressed gratitude to the President of Uganda for his visionary leadership in designing the Sub-County Policing System, which aims to have 18 police personnel in every sub-county across the country.
“It has been our dream to have police outposts in all sub-counties. I am happy that through our lobbying efforts, including engagements with the Inspector General of Police (IGP) and other leaders, we have finally realized this breakthrough,” said Otto.
He revealed that the district had previously instructed sub-county chiefs and police to identify and allocate land for police outposts, a requirement for the government to construct permanent police facilities.
Unexpectedly Early Deployment
The LCV Chairman noted that the deployment came earlier than anticipated, prompting the emergency meeting.
“I was expecting to submit documents in August and have deployment in September. However, yesterday I received calls from the Inspector’s office and our DPC confirming that deployment will begin this Saturday,” Otto explained.
He emphasized that the reception of these officers is critical, as they will arrive without facilities.
“These officers are new to the area. They have no accommodation or offices. It is our responsibility as leaders to mobilize the community to provide temporary housing and working spaces. We must give them the best hospitality,” he urged.
Deputy RDC Confirms Deployment, Calls for Community Support
Deputy RDC Susan Akot Moro, standing in for RDC Nabinson Kidega Nok, echoed the LCV Chairman’s sentiments, confirming that the deployment is a direct response to longstanding community cries over insecurity.
“We have been receiving calls and complaints about insecurity—theft, robbery, and other crimes. The government has heard us. Starting Monday, we shall begin receiving these officers in our sub-counties,” Moro stated.
She called on local leaders to immediately sensitize communities to accommodate the officers.
“When you get on the ground, find people with grass-thatched or mat houses. Many will offer space for free because they understand the value of security. Tell them it is temporary, and the government will intervene in the near future,” she added.
The Challenge of 7% Recovery Rate
In a stern warning, the Deputy RDC expressed concern over the poor recovery of livelihood funds in the district.
“Currently, Agago has a recovery rate of only 7%, the worst in the country. This is unacceptable. We are coming up with plans to recover this money, and I call upon the youth and women to heed this call,” she said.
Free Electricity Program Announcement
Deputy RDC Moro also revealed that the government, through the Ministry of Energy, is launching a major Scaling Up Electricity Project.
“Anyone within a 90-meter radius of the power line will receive free electricity connection. Those beyond that radius will pay a fee but will still benefit from the proximity,” she explained.
She urged local leaders to sensitize businesses, institutions, and households about this opportunity, as the team is expected in the district in July.
Ebola
On the health front, Moro reported that Uganda had registered 20 ebola cases, with 15 recoveries and two deaths. She commended the community for adhering to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and urged continued vigilance.
Land for Development
Both leaders emphasized that the government will not buy land for police posts or other developments. It remains the responsibility of local communities to provide land for such projects.
“Development cannot happen without land. Go back to your people and convince them to offer land for these essential services,” Moro concluded.
A New Era of Security
LCV Chairman Otto summed up the significance of the deployment, stating:
“A secure community is a better community. With over 200 police officers in our midst, the level of crime will reduce significantly. We have a responsibility to defend and keep this progress.”
The community has welcomed the announcement with enthusiasm, with many expressing relief at the prospect of improved security in their areas.
