The locals in Butenga Rural, Bukomansimbi district, have called upon the government to establish a police station in their area to combat the escalating crime rate and insecurity.
Locals said that the absence of a police station has contributed to a surge in criminal activities, as the only existing station is located in Butenga town council and is understaffed, which has resulted in an overwhelming workload for the police, making it difficult for them to effectively manage crime across both areas.
’’We need a police station in Butenga rural as soon as possible because in the past three months we have had more than 10 murders in the area, which is so alarming and making us live in fear and anxiety,’’ the locals disclosed.
In an interview with journalists on October 24, 2024, the Bukomansimbi RDC, Charles Kyasanko, said that it is true that police in Bukomansimbi were given free land to construct a police station; however, the land is in Butenga town council, adding that if they construct a new police station, it will be beneficial to the locals of that area.
He added that they need land in Kyankore, Kisita, and Kasebwera parishes to construct a police station for the locals of Butenga rural to serve them effectively.
’’Butenga sub-county had a police station, but when it was broken into two, the police station remained in Butenga town council was formed, and Butenga Rural was left with no police station, hence why there is a surge in crime and insecurity,’’ Kyasanko noted.
Kyasanko added that if Butenga Rural still had the small police posts, the crime rate and insecurity would not be high; however, after their closure, criminals took advantage to commit heinous crimes.
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With only one police station serving both the town and the rural area, the existing police force is overwhelmed, contributing to a climate of fear and insecurity among locals.
The tragic increase in violent incidents, including multiple murders linked to inadequate law enforcement, underscores the necessity for immediate government action; therefore, the establishment of a dedicated police station would not only alleviate the burden on existing resources but also serve as a proactive step towards fostering a safer environment for all residents.
