The Inspector General of Police Gen Edward Kale Kayihura has advised members of the public to revive neighbourhood watch to boost area security and curb crime.
This, Kayihura says, will compliment efforts of the police in maintaining security in the country.
“Form neighbourhood WhatsApp groups where you can keep updating yourselves about issues in your area. It may seem old-fashioned but it’s effective in maintaining security,” he said.
“America has one of the world’s best security but they still value neighbourhood watch. No one can survive by themselves alone, even God has helpers,” he added.
Kayihura was Sunday evening addressing residents of Najjera in Kiira Division, Wakiso District over the state of security in the area.
Earlier in the day, the IGP moved from Ntinda making stopovers at different Trading Centres where he engaged residents, advising them on how to maintain security in their areas.
Residents listen as Kayihura talks to them about security
Kayihura’s visit comes at the backdrop of a public outcry over increased acts of criminality in Kampala and Wakiso.
Over the past week, several houses in Najjera and Kiira have been raided by Panga-wielding thugs, creating panic amongst the public and uncertainty about the state of security in the area.
Police on Saturday arrested over 10 people in connection to the rising criminality in the area. They are being held at Kira Division Police.
Speaking about boda bodas which are being used mostly by criminals, Kayihura said; “we need to organize boda boda and link them with the security so that they cannot become a problem.”
He said that all city suburbs need to have good lighting before promising to engage local governments on the same.
“KCCA and other local governments need to work on lighting. Even if you brought security officials in the dark, they will have hard time doing the job,” he said.
The Police boss called on residents to be “vigilant and organised as we put more effort on our side.”
Also in attendance was Kampala Metropolitan area Police commander, Frank Mwesigwa, area police chiefs and political leaders.