In the early hours of Tuesday, unknown assailants raided the Karujubu Police post in Karujubu Division, Masindi Municipality, making away with equipment belonging to the National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA).
Reports indicate that the burglars broke into the police post around 3 a.m., stealing three laptops, a bag containing NIRA documents, extension cables, three batteries, and other valuables.
It is not yet clear whether any police officers were present during the break-in. However, Julius Hakiza, Albertine Region Police spokesperson, confirmed that two officers have since been arrested and charged with neglect of duty. The identities of the officers have not been disclosed, and they are currently held at Masindi Central Police Station.
Hakiza urged the public to come forward with any information that could help recover the stolen items and bring the perpetrators to justice.
Solomon Asiimwe, the LC III Chairperson for Karujubu Division, expressed concern over the theft, warning that the stolen laptops could disrupt the ongoing renewal of national identity cards in the area. He called for urgent intervention by NIRA.
Asiimwe also noted that the division has been facing an increase in thefts, with criminals targeting residents at night. He appealed to the district security committee to bolster security by enhancing night patrols to address the rising incidents.
Julius Isingoma, Town Clerk of Karujubu Division, added that the intruders also tried to break into the office of the accountant but failed after being unable to dismantle the padlock.
Suzan Nabunje Kiyengo, the district NIRA registrar, confirmed the robbery but declined to provide further information, saying that the case is under police investigation.
The incident has raised concerns about the security of sensitive government operations in Karujubu Division and the potential impact on public services throughout Masindi Municipality.
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