Police, child rights activists intensify action after Pader disco arrests

2 January 2026, 3:51 pm

By Odong Daniel

Police and child-rights advocates in Pader District have pledged to intensify enforcement of child protection laws following the recent arrest of minors found at a disco hall in Pader Town Council during New Year celebrations.

The renewed enforcement drive comes amid growing concern over increasing cases of children accessing bars, discos and lodges, exposing them to abuse, exploitation and health risks.

SP Jackson Bogere, the District Police Commander (DPC) for Pader, said the operations will target entertainment venues, night movements of minors, and parents or guardians neglecting their responsibilities. Police have warned that proprietors who allow underage children into discos and bars risk arrest and prosecution under Uganda’s child protection laws.

Speaking to LUO F.M., SP Bogere said police will work closely with probation officers, community development staff and local leaders to ensure children are protected, particularly during school holidays.

“The law is very clear. Children should not be in bars, discos or lodges. Parents and business owners who ignore this will be held accountable,” SP Bogere said.

Child-rights advocates have welcomed the enforcement initiative, calling for a balanced approach that prioritises the welfare and rehabilitation of affected children rather than punishment.

David Odwong Okech, Pader District Probation Officer, said children found in such situations should be referred for counselling, family tracing and community-based support, in line with the Children Act. He emphasised that detention of minors should only be used as a last resort.

Amone Bosco, Chairperson LCIII of Ogom Sub county, has also been urged to revive child protection committees at village and parish levels to monitor child safety, report abuse, and educate parents on their legal obligations.

According to rights activists, economic hardship, weak supervision and limited awareness of child protection laws continue to expose children to risky environments, particularly in urban centres.

Meanwhile, parents interviewed by LUO F.M. expressed mixed reactions, with some supporting tougher enforcement while others called for increased community sensitisation rather than punitive measures.

Police say that sustained enforcement, combined with parental responsibility and community vigilance, remains critical to protecting children from harm and ensuring their rights to safety, education and healthy development are upheld.