Police Warn of Fraud, Kidnaps and Fires as Schools Reopen

As thousands of learners across the country return to school for the new term, the Uganda Police Force has issued a comprehensive safety advisory to parents, guardians, and school administrators, urging heightened vigilance to prevent crime, accidents, and negligence.

Addressing journalists in Kampala, Police Spokesperson CP Kituuma Rusoke cautioned that the back-to-school period is often exploited by criminals, while also highlighting recurrent mistakes by parents and schools that endanger children.

Rusoke warned that the school fees season attracts conmen who prey on unsuspecting parents at banks and payment points.

“During this time, money is being transacted, and con men are very active. They target parents in long queues at banks and sometimes pose as middlemen. We strongly encourage schools to adopt electronic payment systems and for parents to embrace mobile and online transactions to minimize risks,” he advised.

The police also raised concerns about increased threats of child kidnaps, particularly linked to ransom demands and family disputes.

“Every term, we register kidnap-related cases. Some are criminal, while others arise from marital conflicts, where one parent takes a child without the consent of the other. This drags schools into unnecessary conflict and tarnishes their reputation,” Rusoke explained.

He urged schools to establish strict protocols on who is authorized to drop off and pick up children, stressing that clear documentation can prevent disputes and false accusations.

Rusoke also pointed to health and safety lapses that often lead to avoidable incidents.

Chronic illnesses: Parents were urged to disclose any serious health conditions of their children to school administrators to avoid medical emergencies being misinterpreted as negligence. Contraband and drugs: Police have recorded cases of students sneaking drugs, alcohol, and even weapons into schools. Rusoke called on administrators to thoroughly inspect students’ belongings during check-in. Fire safety: Although fire-related incidents were fewer last term, the police warned schools to remain alert. Poor wiring, unsafe use of electricity by students, and negligence have previously caused devastating fires in dormitories. Physical hazards: Schools were urged to fix uncovered manholes, weak structures, and other risks that could cause serious injuries and trigger legal consequences.

The police spokesperson also reminded schools to monitor early warning signs of unrest among students.

“Strikes rarely happen spontaneously. They build up over unresolved grievances. Administrators must pay attention to red flags, listen to students’ concerns, and engage them constructively. Where necessary, involve police early for dialogue and de-escalation,” Rusoke said.

He emphasized that ignoring students’ complaints often leads to violent demonstrations, destruction of property, and long-term reputational damage for institutions.

Concluding his remarks, Rusoke urged both parents and schools to treat student safety as a shared responsibility.

“These are avoidable mistakes if only we work together. Parents should protect their children during school runs, schools must establish clear protocols, and both must embrace modern payment systems to defeat fraudsters. Together, we can ensure a safe and smooth start to the new school term,” he said.