Bar owners have been advised to strengthen security measures by hiring bouncers and additional personnel, especially with the upcoming festive season on the horizon. This recommendation comes in response to a surge in attacks targeting individuals within bars.
SCP Enanga Fred, the police spokesperson, disclosed that some patrons gain access to bars with dangerous items such as knives and firearms, contributing to an alarming increase in violent incidents, particularly when individuals are under the influence.
Addressing reporters during the weekly security press briefing at Police headquarters in Naguru on Monday, Enanga recounted an incident that occurred on December 13, 2023. Corporal Amanya Kenneth, employed in revenue enforcement in Lyantonde, was fatally attacked at Apex Bar, allegedly over a woman named Apophia Kyampaire.
According to reports, Amanya and Kyampaire went to the bar together, but the situation escalated when other men, including one identified as Hakim, began making advances toward her. After the Corporal left the bar, Hakim followed, leading to a fatal altercation. Hakim, the bar cashier Kyomugisha Immaculate, and another man identified as Joshua have been apprehended.
Enanga told the media that Apex Bar lacked adequate security measures.
In a separate incident in Kasokoso, Kireka, a heated argument unfolded between Nyahoro Monica and her husband Opio Michael, suspected of infidelity. The verbal altercation escalated when Nyahoro left the bar, retrieved a knife, and fatally wounded her husband. Despite immediate medical attention at Express Care Clinic, Opio succumbed to his injuries, and Nyahoro is now in police custody.
In Luuka District, three individuals employed at Makaribishu bar were arrested in connection with the murder of Muhamad Kilibaki, a 28-year-old patron. Investigations revealed that Nabongo Eliakezi, a 30-year-old cashier, along with Swaga Steven and Mukoda Janet, were implicated in Muhamad’s gruesome death. The trio reportedly dismembered the victim’s finger and subjected him to torture.
Enanga says that these incidents show the insufficient security measures at many bars, citing the absence of bouncers and other safeguards. He revealed that all police commanders have been directed to closely monitor the operations of bars, and managers complicit in covering up crimes will face arrest. Bars without adequate security measures risk arrest, and establishments with a high incidence of crimes may have their licenses revoked.
Enanga urged bar owners to train their staff in handling intoxicated patrons and to promptly report any criminal activities occurring within their establishments.
