The recent release of the annual police crime report has brought some glad tidings—crime in Uganda has gone down by 4.1% compared to previous year. The report shows that the number of reported cases had gone down from 228,074 in 2023 to 218,715 in 2024. This is a step in the right direction towards making the country safer for all its inhabitants.

The report, which was released on Wednesday, recorded different categories of offenses committed in the course of the year. Theft was the most common offense, with 61,529 offenses reported. Assault offenses were second with 29,580 offenses, while domestic violence offenses accounted for 14,073. Other crimes were 14,425 sex crimes, 13,511 housebreakings, 9,408 child offense, and 13,107 economic and corruption crimes.

Of the 218,715 cases reported in 2024, a total of 26,328 cases were ultimately prosecuted successfully with the accused being convicted and sentenced. However, 10,333 cases were dismissed, and 43,579 cases are pending trial. Besides, 119,939 case files have been sent to resident state attorneys, while 90,663 remain under investigation. Some 46,302 cases remained undetected or not pursued further.

An average of 18,226 cases were reported to the police each month in 2024. The report indicated February as the most crime-prone month with 19,227 cases. Next was April with 19,045 cases, and third was September with 18,946 cases being reported within the country.

The crime report further stated the number of suspects in such cases. 88,985 suspects were arrested and appeared before court in 2024. They consisted of 81,878 adult males, 4,839 adult females, 2,073 male children, and 195 female children. Out of the arrested individuals, 12,148 were found guilty and taken to serve prison time in different prisons across Uganda, while 76,364 suspects are awaiting trial.

The report also noted the number of crime victims in 2024, totaling 220,594 persons. They are theft, assault, domestic violence, and other crime victims during the year.

In terms of the spread of crime by various regions, Rwizi recorded the highest number of cases with 17,105 cases. This was followed by Kampala Metropolitan North with 16,742 cases, North Kyoga with 16,220 cases, Kampala Metropolitan South with 15,353 cases, and Greater Masaka with 11,884 cases.

Inspector General of Police, Abbas Byakagaba, had previously explained the reduction in crime because of new policies started by the police force. He once again explained that the sub-county policing model would also help in the reduction of crime rates in the future.

“We have started implementing the sub-county policing system where there will be a minimum of 18 police officers in each sub-county. It will make the police services closer to the people, enhance crime prevention, and provide a quick response to criminal activity,” Byakagaba said.

He also stressed the need for police work to be reformed through improved training and equipment. “Our job is to raise the attitude and readiness of the police, improve their welfare, housing, health, and professional skills. Along with modern anti-crime technology and infrastructure, these measures will guarantee law and order in the country.”

With continued developments in police strategy and community engagement, Uganda is on the path to safer streets and reduced crime. The new report is proof that the war on crime is gaining momentum, but authorities assert there is more to be done.

As the police exert more efforts and communities actively engage in security schemes, Uganda can look forward to even greater reductions in crime in years to come.