13 subcounties in Agago district lack police posts

13 March 2025, 11:25 AM

By Freeman Canogura

Thirteen subcounties in Agago district are operating without a single police post, leaving residents vulnerable to rising crime.

The affected subcounties are Ajali, Lukole, Adilang, Laperebong, Geregere, Arum, Agengo, Lamiyo, Kuywee, Parabongo, Lira Palwo, Wol and Omiya Pacwa.

Residents are calling on the government to establish police posts in these areas to improve security. They say that existing police stations are too far away, making it difficult to report crimes or seek help in emergencies.

Ayugu Judith, a resident of Arum subcounty, says people must walk long distances to access police services at Omot police post. Meanwhile, crime is increasing, with cases of shop break-ins and home burglaries becoming more common.

James Komakech, from Kuywee subcounty, explains that criminals take advantage of the lack of police presence, attacking residents at night. He says that when incidents occur, police from Kalongo or Agago CPS take too long to respond.

Joselyne Auma, a resident of Laperebong subcounty, highlights the high cost of transport to report cases. She says that residents spend over 30,000 shillings to reach Agago central police station.

For Akello Nighty, a resident of Geregere subcounty, the situation is even more frustrating. She wonders why the government has not prioritised their security, especially given the violent land conflicts in the area that require immediate police intervention.

Leonard Ojok, the Agago district LCV chairperson, agrees that the lack of police posts has worsened insecurity, as criminals target subcounties knowing that police response will be delayed. He also emphasises the need for more officers to reinforce the few existing police stations. However, he remains hopeful, saying that the ongoing police recruitment could lead to the establishment of new police posts.

Agago District Police Commander, Omar Kokole, admits that the district lacks enough manpower to staff even the few available police posts. He, however, assures residents that the police leadership is aware of the issue and is working on a solution.

IP Joe Oloya, the Aswa East Regional Police Spokesperson, says the biggest challenge is not just manpower but lack of land to set up police posts. He notes that communities have been unwilling to offer land for police facilities. Oloya urges local leaders and residents to provide land in writing to the police, promising that once land is secured, police posts will be established immediately.