President Yoweri Museveni has taken a bold step in the fight against crime, issuing a directive to stop granting police bond to suspects.
This move aims to curb rising insecurity, particularly in cases of theft and other petty crimes.
“The directive was given, and it is going to be enforced,” said Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Kituuma Rusoke, emphasizing the non-negotiable nature of the measure.
President Museveni’s decision was motivated by concerns over the current system, which allows alleged criminals to return to society before their cases are resolved.
“Who gives a police bond to a village thief when the case is ready for trial?” he asked, highlighting his frustration with the growing disregard for justice.
The new order will apply across all levels of the police force, with territorial commanders tasked with speeding up the investigation process.
President Museveni has also emphasized the importance of holding the police accountable for ensuring these measures are followed.
In addition to the changes within the police force, the President has raised the issue with the judiciary, urging judicial officers to reconsider granting bail to suspects facing serious criminal charges.
The directive builds on a previous recommendation by Uganda’s Principal Judge, Flavian Zeija, who called for an end to granting bail to capital offenders.
This move forms part of a broader strategy to reduce criminal activities by tightening the legal framework around suspects involved in crimes like theft.
A key area of concern highlighted by the President is the rise in livestock and coffee theft.
The theft of raw coffee beans has caused farmers to rush to harvest, leading to a decline in the quality of Uganda’s coffee on the international market.
“Uganda’s coffee prices are at 40-year highs for Arabica beans and 47-year highs overall,” the President noted, underscoring the importance of protecting this valuable export.
Unless local security forces take decisive action, the President warned that he would deploy the army and Local Defense Unit (LDU) personnel to restore order.
“If I call in the army and the LDUs, I assure you it will not be good for the thieves,” he warned.
The police have already taken steps to enforce the directive, with three officers detained for releasing robbery suspects on police bond contrary to the presidential directive.
As the police and judiciary work together to tighten the grip on crime, it remains to be seen whether these measures will lead to a reduction in petty crime and contribute to lasting peace and security in the country.
