By THE OBSERVER UG
Ibanda district security committee has imposed a temporary ban on overnight activities, including night prayers, concerts, and nightclubs, ahead of the Christmas holidays.
The committee stated that the immediate enforcement of the ban is in response to a security threat in the area, particularly following the recent attack on the neighbouring Kamwenge district by suspected Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) rebels.
Ibanda resident district commissioner Caleb Tukaikiriza notes that during the attack, Ibanda district lost six lives. He explains that the purpose of the ban is to prioritize people’s safety. Samson Kasasira, Rwizi Region police spokesperson, confirmed that this decision was made during a security meeting held earlier.
To support the ban, they have increased deployment and launched awareness campaigns in the district to enhance vigilance. Rev. Shedrack Maniragaba of Rugarama Church of Uganda in Kyabwayera, Bihanga parish in Ibanda district, commended the security committee’s action.
He emphasized the challenge of identifying potential threats among community members and called for heightened vigilance, especially during the Christmas season. Rev Maniragaba said he would comply with the ban by organizing daytime crusade prayers ending by 5 pm and discontinuing the church choir’s overnight plans.
Denis Mugume, also known as Dj Denno, expressed frustration at the impact of the ban on his livelihood, as his income relies solely on nighttime activities. He appealed to the authorities to consider a subtler approach, proposing a specific timeframe rather than a complete prohibition. Recent violence in Kyabandara parish, Kamwenge sub-county, resulted in the deaths of ten people.
Vincent Twesigye, the Rwenzori West police spokesperson, reported that a group of about ten armed assailants attacked the Kitehurizi trading center at 10 pm hacked some locals to death, abducted others, and set several houses ablaze.
//
Discussion about this post