Seeking redemption, Arua city ringleaders 'quit crime'

ARUA - Police in Uganda's northern city of Arua have said eight ringleaders of different criminal gangs have surrendered to security — along with their followers.

The ringleaders claimed they wanted to reform, a turnaround that will have been welcomed by the locals.

Police said they had had several engagements with city leaders and the gang leaders in efforts to curb criminality in Arua.

Some of the surrendered ringleaders include the so-called Tororo, Bashir and Kika, who led crime-thirsty cliques.

These groups have been notorious for snatching people's phones and bags as well as breaking into buildings. 

Collins Asea, the acting police spokesperson for West Nile region, told reporters on Wednesday that the ringleaders claimed they were "tired" of committing crime.

“We have received eight criminal gang leaders who have also presented their followers seeking reform — that they are tired of engaging in criminal activities of snatching phones, bags and robbing people," said Asea.

He urged the community to accept them but still continue to monitor their activities, making it clear that their files are still open for any criminal eventuality.

“To the community, please give a chance to these people since they came out on their own, but this does not mean that their files are closed," said the regional Police spokesperson.

"In case they engage in any criminality, their files will be reactivated and forwarded to court."

Meanwhile, deputy resident city commissioner Swadick Angupale appealed to non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to intervene and provide rehabilitation and training support to the 'reformed' gang members to skill them and improve their livelihood.

He said that "if they are well rehabilitated and guided, they will be in position to settle and earn a living instead of stealing."