Three Arrested in Major Security Crackdown on Suspected Criminals in Lira City.

By Hillary Opio Omara 

LIRA CITY - Police and other security agencies have arrested three suspected criminals during a major security operation in Barapwo Ward, Lira City West Division.

 The operation was conducted following numerous complaints from residents about rampant theft,drug abuse,robbery and other criminal activities in Apii-Pe Cell and other parts of Barapwo Ward.

The security operation was led by the Lira City West Division, Deputy Resident City Commissioner (RCC),Joan Apio alongside police and other security personnel. During the operation,security personnel raided several locations believed to be hiding suspected criminals and recovered suspected stolen property,including Marijuana and other items.

 The Lira City RCC,Lawrence Egole,who was present during the operation,ordered the arrest of a suspected criminal identified as Gadafi Ocen. Security personnel later arrested another suspect,identified as Innocent Acunge,who was allegedly found in possession of suspected stolen items.

Security officers subsequently extended their operation to Gadafi Ocen's residence, where they arrested a third suspect, identified as Oluk Oscar. According to security officials,Oscar was allegedly found hiding inside a ceiling board during the raid. Further searches at the residence reportedly led to the recovery of Marijuana,and other items.

Egole said the operation followed persistent complaints from residents accusing Gadafi Ocen and other suspects of involvement in livestock theft and other criminal activities. 

He noted that this was not the first time security agencies had pursued Ocen, alleging that the suspect had previously released from police custody. “We shall continue conducting security operations in Barapwo Ward until all those involved in criminal activities are arrested and brought to justice,” Egole said,noting that the area has experienced a high level of crime. The Mayor of Lira City West Division, Emmanuel Ebong Opeto,said the arrest of the suspects was an important step towards restoring security in Barapwo Ward.

 He alleged that criminal activities,including livestock theft and the circulation of suspected stolen property,had damaged the reputation of the area. Residents of Apii-Pe Cell said the increasing cases of theft and livestock stealing had left them living in fear. They appealed to security authorities to intensify patrols and consider re-establishing a police post in the area to improve security during both day and night.

The three suspects are currently in police custody as investigations into the allegations continue.