The kidnappers held her captive for nearly three weeks, demanding up to $1 million before accepting about $200,000 (approximately UGX 700 million). During her captivity, they cut off two of her fingers and sent them alongside a video of her pleading for help to pressure her family into paying the ransom.
Akena referred to historical statements by President Museveni acknowledging the destruction of food supplies and the destitution of about 2.7 million people during that period. He argued that the loss of cattle deprived communities of daily nutrition, household income, school fees, draft power, and soil fertility, leaving effects that continue to be felt today.
“It is illegal for private individuals to install sirens or use escort vehicles to force their way through traffic. The right of way is only provided for the State motorcade, the Vice President, the Prime Minister, the Speaker, the Deputy Speaker, the Chief Justice, ambulances and emergency military vehicles. Ministers do not have the legal right of way,” Kananura noted.
Police will distribute road safety materials like flyers, blotches, and stickers; utilization of mass media, that is, radio, TV, and social media platforms; and also stakeholder engagements. We also intend to engage the region's leaders, local councils, school administrators, markets, and associations.
Children who attend school are particularly susceptible to accidents when traveling on the roads; therefore, there is a need to make sure they do so securely by taking good transportation and walking in groups.
Motorcycles involved in more serious crimes, such as robbery, murder, and accidents, will remain in police custody as they are still under investigation.