Kira Road Police Admit Gaps in School Outreach, Shift Focus to Prevention

Kampala April 19, 2026 - The Kira Road Police Division has acknowledged significant shortcomings in its school outreach programmes, revealing that several secondary schools within its jurisdiction have not been reached by community policing initiatives. Divisional Police Commander Suubi Sam said the findings have prompted a comprehensive review to assess the real impact of police engagement in schools, with a shift toward measurable outcomes such as crime reduction, improved reporting, and legal awareness among students. “We have been active, yes-but we must ask ourselves: are we effective?” Suubi said, noting that the review will move beyond routine activity reports to focus on tangible results. The reassessment comes as schools in densely populated suburbs such as Kamwokya and Kyebando face increasing urban challenges. Many institutions are located near areas associated with drug activity, betting centres, and higher crime rates, exposing students to risks including gang recruitment and substance abuse. “This is not just about discipline; it’s about survival in these environments,” Suubi warned. In response, the division is adopting a prevention-focused approach, introducing a mentorship-based policing model aimed at building trust and guiding students before issues escalate. “A police officer should not only be seen when there is a problem,” he said. “We want to build relationships, guide students, and prevent crime before it happens.” Authorities also plan to evaluate whether students feel confident reporting crimes, amid concerns that many incidents go unreported due to lack of trust. “If students cannot trust us, then our presence in schools means very little,” Suubi added. Anatoli Muleterwa, Commissioner for Community Policing, reinforced the emphasis on prevention, urging students to take responsibility for their choices. “Success is built on discipline, hard work, and purpose,” Muleterwa said, cautioning against negative peer influence and warning of the consequences of criminal behavior. “Crime does not bring pride; it brings fear, embarrassment, and isolation,” he added, noting that legal accountability applies to individuals from the age of 12. Police are also encouraging greater community involvement, calling on students, parents, local leaders, and informal actors such as boda boda riders to play a role in maintaining security. “Security is not just a police responsibility; it is a community responsibility,” Suubi emphasized. As reforms take shape, the Kira Road Police Division says its priority is to transform schools into safer environments through prevention, accountability, and stronger community engagement.