The Uganda Police fraternity has urged the public, especially mobile money operators and businesses, to take extra caution and be vigilant during the festive season.

SCP Enanga Fred, the Police Spokesperson, said this in a statement dated November 15, 2023, as he noted that targeted attacks on mobile money dealers, traders, village saving groups, SACCOs, motor vehicles, and cattle, among others, are on the rise.

“This pre-festive season is not only a time of stocking festive items by several business persons, but it paves a way for criminals to rob such entities,” Enanga said.

“We would urge the public to be vigilant for suspicious people or vehicles and report any concerns to police immediately,” Enanga added.

He asked the public to put security measures around their businesses and homes, like using armed guards and escorts when transporting or collecting cash, switching to cashless transactions, and keeping cash out of sight, among others, in order to help protect their belongings and money.

According to the 2022 annual crime report, 6936 cases of mobile money thefts were registered, compared to 4,143 cases in 2021, which has prompted dealers to partner with security companies to enhance security during cash collection and transactions.