Joyce Namugambe
Uganda police has warned the public about the emergency of kidnapping of school children with criminals targeting getting money from parents. This follows cases coming up to police as a result of kidnaps one being in Kampala Metropolitan East and the second one in Naggalama division areas.
One, the boy identified as Shafik Sesanga aged 2years was kidnapped on 19 September and his kidnappers demand 2 million for his release, and the second being a girl identified as Hope Biyinzika aged 3 years was kidnapped on her way from home to school on 22 September and the kidnappers asked for a ransom of 2.6 million shillings in 24 hours.
The third case is of a 14 years old boy known as Henry Kanyubi who disappeared on 18 September and his way abouts are not yet known. Christine Mirembe, a 15 year old girl also disappeared on 17 September and it is suspected that she was kidnapped on her way to school.
The police therefore warns parents to be very vigilant and protective over the safety of their children so that they avoid the kidnapping cases. It has issued tips to be followed.
- Vary your routine and avoid predictable patterns.
- Be cautious about sharing personal information on social media.
- Be aware of the security situation in your area and any recent incidents of kidnappings.
- Pay attention to your surroundings and trust your instincts if something feels off or suspicious.
- When traveling, especially in unfamiliar areas, plan your routes and inform someone you trust about your journey.
- Ensure that doors and windows are locked and secure at home and in your vehicle.
- Educate your children about the risks of abduction and provide them with strategies on how to stay safe.
- Memorize emergency phone numbers and have a phone with you at all times.
- Stay away from areas known for high crime rates or kidnappings, if possible.
- Keep a list of emergency contacts and authorities handy.
- Travel in groups, especially at night.
- If someone or a situation makes you uncomfortable, remove yourself from it and seek help if necessary.
- Choose reputable transportation options and avoid hitchhiking.
- Install security systems and consider measures like motion-activated lighting at home.
- In the unfortunate event of a kidnapping attempt, try to remain calm and cooperate with the kidnapper. Your safety is the top priority.
