By Andrew Gum
As students settle into the semester, Uganda Christian University (UCU’s) security team has issued a cautionary notice about theft, which typically spikes during the first few weeks. Mr. Jonathan Kainamura, head of security supervision, noted that many students return in a relaxed “holiday mode,” making them less vigilant. He stressed the importance of investing in high-quality padlocks, cautioning against using inexpensive ones that are easily compromised.
Mr. Kainamura also discouraged students from hosting non-roommates. He cited a recent case where a visitor stole valuables but was later apprehended. He emphasised that security starts with individual responsibility, advising students to be cautious, avoid blind trust, and keep their belongings secure. Additionally, he warned against sharing room keys, as some friends may secretly duplicate them, leading to conflicts and breaches of trust.
The outgoing UCU Police Officer in Charge, ASP Dickens Tar, in his farewell remarks during community worship, expressed concerns about students frequenting bars early this semester. He noted that three incidents had been reported so far: two cases involving a student’s room being robbed while the occupant was away, and a phone stolen from a bar. He also mentioned frequently encountering students during night patrols, which he deemed inappropriate behaviour. He urged students to avoid visiting bars and instead focus on the primary reason they came to the university
Mr. Roger Jimmy Kisa, the custodian of Nsibambi Hall, observed that the current semester, comprising mainly continuing students, has shown better security awareness. Unlike the previous term, when numerous thefts were reported in the first two weeks, there have been no incidents so far.
Mr. Kisa emphasized the importance of locking rooms at all times, even during brief absences, as it takes only minutes for thieves to steal valuable items. He advised students to avoid allowing strangers into their rooms or interacting with them, as these individuals are often skilled at convincing students while harboring bad intentions.
“Last semester, when we requested management to install CCTV cameras in the corridors due to a rise in theft cases, management approved the installation of security cameras in the residence hall corridors. We are now only waiting for the implementation,” he added.
Ronald Ocuwun, a fourth-year Agricultural Science student and resident of Tech Park Hall, noted that security has improved this semester. He remarked that the rooms, especially the doors, are in better condition compared to previous semesters, and even the windows have been repaired. He added that he has not heard of any theft cases since the beginning of this semester.
