124 arrested in Mbarara City
Police in Mbarara City have arrested street children and men found within the city’s business area. In a coordinated effort between police and the Mbarara City South Probation Office, a night operation on Monday resulted in the arrest of 124 street children and men.
Gershom Kakuru, the Mbarara City South Division Probation Officer explained that the rising number of street children in the city center is partly due to an influx of refugees from Nakivale Refugee Camp in Isingiro District. Many of these refugees have drifted into Mbarara contributing to the increasing street population.
The operation targeted key areas including Kisenyi, Kakoba, Kijungu and High Street. So far, 24 of those apprehended have been handed over to officials from the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and transported back to Nakivale. The remaining individuals are expected to either be reunited with their families or transferred to rehabilitation centers for support.
Rwizi Regional Police Spokesperson, SP Samson Kasasira confirmed that out of the 124 arrests, 74 were minors, 24 were foreign nationals, and 23 were adults aged 18 and above. The adults are currently undergoing police screening to determine further action.
The authorities emphasized their commitment to addressing the issue of street children in Mbarara, balancing law enforcement with social interventions.
