Public co-operation, Police response account for 2024 crime drop

By Simon Masaba 

KAMPALA - Increased public co-operation and improved Police response are responsible for the 4.1% drop in crime across Uganda, according to the Annual Crime Report 2024.

The report was on February 19, 2025, launched by Inspector General of Police (IGP) Abas Byakagaba at Police headquarters Naguru in Kampala city.

Byakagaba attributed the decline in crime—from 228,074 cases in 2023 to 218,715 in 2024—to the active role of Ugandans in reporting offences and the Police force’s enhanced crime-fighting efforts.

“The public plays a crucial role in maintaining law and order. Their willingness to report cases has allowed us to respond more effectively,” Byakagaba stated. “We recognise and appreciate their contribution to this progress.”

The IGP outlined Police efforts to bring services closer to the people, particularly through the Sub-County Policing Model, which places 18 police officers in each sub-county.

“This approach is aimed at improving response times, enhancing community security and strengthening crime prevention at the grassroots level,” he said.

Byakagaba emphasized that the ongoing restructuring of the force, guided by President Yoweri Museveni’s directive, is designed to transition Uganda’s police from a city-based model to a fully nationwide.

The Uganda Police Force is also prioritising professionalism and capacity building, ensuring officers are well-trained and equipped to handle crime efficiently.

“Our focus is on improving officer welfare, training, and operational readiness. Additionally, we are investing in CCTV surveillance, forensic services, and digital crime-tracking tools to enhance investigations and crime prevention,” Byakagaba said.

The IGP commended the strong collaboration between police and other security agencies, including the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), the Judiciary, the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), and intelligence bodies such as Internal and External Security Organization.

“This co-operation has enabled us to make significant progress in handling crime. We will continue to strengthen these partnerships to ensure effective law enforcement,” he noted.