Asiimwe Mugumya
Twitter: @Muuya33
Lots of people flock Makerere University campus daily because of the role it plays in the realization of their dreams. These large numbers, however, have a downside when it comes to security at campus. Much as there has been an attempt, lately, to step up security with the installation of L.E.D. lights at the campus, this is not sufficient as every individual needs to take caution of their own security.
Security officials at the Ivory Tower have, on several occasions, urged students to stay alert at all times and keep watch over their individual security. This is after the campus has been named amongst the possible targets for terrorists. Even the constant strikes at Makerere of late, do not make the situation any better.
There have also been cases of muggers who have, over time, troubled students at the University. They usually hide in the shady places around the campus like Kikoni, Katanga, Kikumi-kikumi, behind Africa Hall, around Makerere College School, behind Lumumba Hall, and many other places, waiting to pounce on unlucky students and steal their property.
The University Chief Security officer, Mr. Frank Byaruhanga, has been quoted encouraging students to move in groups so as to reduce on the risks of being mugged. “We have always warned them against moving alone at night.” He said.
Recently, an I.T. student was attacked on his way from an evening lecture, beaten up and also ended up losing his property in the scuffle. Also the other day, an unidentified man was beaten to “near death” in Katanga, at around mid night, after he tried to snatch a babe’s bag, as she was on her way to her hostel. People who were around, including some students and other residents expressed concern that this was no new happening to the area.
Sometimes, these muggers do not only aim at stealing. There have also been some reports of raping and even killing too, at the campus. This shows a great need for individuals, especially those new to the campus, to be security conscious. Please be cautious, avoid isolated areas and take care.
