ALEBTONG, UGANDA – In a swift operation aimed at restoring order in Ajuri Market, authorities in Alebtong District have arrested three individuals on charges related to the illegal sale and consumption of marijuana, as well as a series of robberies targeting local traders and residents. Among those apprehended is a 63-year-old man who was found in possession of a significant quantity of the narcotic he was allegedly selling.
The operation, which took place on Monday , was led by the office of the Resident District Commissioner (RDC) for Alebtong District. The arrests come after weeks of mounting frustration from community members who reported that drug abuse had become a catalyst for violent crime in the busy market area.
Speaking to the press, Mr. Jimmy Okello, the Assistant RDC for Alebtong District, confirmed the arrests and detailed the charges against the suspects.
"We received a distress report from community members and traders that some individuals were terrorizing people in Ajuri Market after smoking marijuana," Mr. Okello stated. "They were not only disturbing the peace but were also using the influence of the drugs to commit serious crimes against innocent citizens."
The investigation revealed a disturbing pattern of behavior linked to the suspects. According to Mr. Okello, the group operated a makeshift operation near the market where a woman would cook meals for them. In exchange for the food, the suspects would use the proceeds from their criminal activities to pay her.
"Their modus operandi was clear. They would rob people, and then use that stolen money to pay for the food the woman cooked for them. It was a cycle of crime," Mr. Okello explained.
In one specific incident that sparked the operation, the group allegedly stole a bicycle from a young girl by force. When the victim attempted to recover her property, the suspects demanded a ransom of 50,000 Ugandan Shillings for its return.
Furthermore, authorities confirmed that the three are also suspected of waylaying and robbing a businessman who was conducting trade in the area.
The three suspects are currently being held at the Alebtong Central Police Station (CPS) as investigations continue. Mr. Okello issued a stern warning to the public, making it clear that the district authorities will not tolerate illegal activities.
"We want to put everyone on notice," Mr. Okello cautioned. "We will not allow any person to smoke, grow, sell marijuana, or rob people in Alebtong District. The law will take its course, and we are committed to ensuring that our markets and communities are safe for everyone."
