Kampala – The Uganda Police Force is urging parents to exercise extreme caution when hiring domestic workers, following a surge in kidnap cases involving children.
According to Kituuma Rusoke, police spokesperson, many homes hire workers without proper background checks, which can lead to tragic consequences.
“We appeal to parents to take keen interest in the workers they hire in their homes. Always hire workers from credible sources and conduct thorough background checks. Some of these individuals have criminal backgrounds, and it’s crucial to be aware of their origins,” Rusoke emphasized.
The police also stress the importance of having emergency safety procedures in place, including keeping police contacts, particularly the nearest police station’s contact information, to ensure quick responses in case of an emergency.
In a recent incident, a one-and-a-half-year-old child, Lucas Sserwadda, was abducted in Bunamwaya by a maid, Nakija Prossy, who had worked for the family for only two weeks. Fortunately, the police swiftly responded to the parents’ report and rescued the child in Mayuge.
The police urge parents to be vigilant and take necessary precautions to ensure their children’s safety. By being mindful of who they hire and having emergency procedures in place, parents can significantly reduce the risk of kidnap and ensure a safer environment for their children.
Tips and precautions:
– Hire domestic workers from credible sources
– Conduct thorough background checks
– Keep police contacts, including the nearest police station’s information
– Establish emergency safety procedures
– Be vigilant and monitor your child’s safety at all times