By Robert Segawa
The Uganda Police have reported a total of 55 deaths out of 91 criminal cases recorded nationwide during the Christmas festivities from December 24 to 26, 2024. While tragic, the police noted that this was a decrease in crime compared to the same period in 2023, which saw 110 cases.
Speaking at a press conference at the Police Headquarters in Naguru, Assistant Commissioner of Police Kituuma Rusoke revealed the breakdown of the cases. Among the 55 fatalities, 12 people died due to assault, 7 were struck by blunt objects, and 8 succumbed to sudden deaths. Additionally, 5 individuals took their own lives, 6 were stabbed, 2 drowned, 4 died as a result of rush and neglect, and others died from food poisoning and arson.
Despite these losses, Kituuma emphasized that the overall atmosphere during the holiday was relatively peaceful.
He pointed out that the number of crimes was significantly lower than the previous year, which had seen more fatalities and incidents. However, investigations are still ongoing into two suspected murders and a case of death by arson.
In total, 19 people were arrested in connection with various crimes during the festivities, and police are continuing their efforts to ensure safety and security across the country as the investigations unfold.
