UGANDA, Jinja | Real Muloodi News | Police in Jinja are cautioning hotel guests in Jinja City to remain vigilant against hotel workers following a series of alleged thefts targeting guests’ property within the hospitality sector.
Kiira Region Police Spokesperson, James Mubi, emphasised the importance of guests informing authorities about carrying substantial sums of money for enhanced security measures.
Mubi highlighted police efforts to bolster security by deploying Counter Terrorism officers to hotels and conducting regular patrols.
“We have done our part by providing hotels with Counter Terrorism officers and reinforcing patrols. However, we urge the public not to solely blame law enforcement for the alleged oversight of some hotels in screening their staff,” stated Mubi, citing recent arrests of hotel workers linked to criminal activities.
Mubi’s remarks come in response to heightened public scrutiny of hotels in Jinja City, fueled by social media reports alleging security lapses resulting in guests’ property losses.
On April 2, a guest, Patience Asaba Katushabe, reported the theft of personal belongings, including electronic devices and clothing, during her stay at a Jinja hotel.
Similarly, musician and filmmaker Vince Musisi recounted a robbery incident, cautioning individuals without personal security to avoid Jinja City.
Despite these allegations, Nile Village proprietor, Harry Kasigwa, refuted the claims, dismissing them as unsubstantiated.
However, former Lands Minister and Source of the Nile Hotel proprietor, Daudi Migereko, acknowledged the social media reports, attributing them to incidents in March and April.
Migereko highlighted subsequent police interventions, including arrests and security consultations with hotel managers.
In light of these developments, concerns have been raised regarding the welfare of hotel workers. Angela Namukose, a waitress in Jinja, lamented the financial strain of her job, citing inadequate pay as a contributing factor to temptation among some staff.
Fred Mugisha, a businessman frequenting Jinja for business purposes, expressed the need for immediate action, considering significant investments in the hotel sector.
Mugisha underscored the importance of addressing internal security vulnerabilities, particularly among hotel staff.
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