By URN
Police, in collaboration with Hoima city authorities, have apprehended eighteen suspected mentally ill individuals. The operation, carried out on Tuesday in various parts of Hoima city, was prompted by rising security concerns.
The suspects were immediately taken to the psychiatric wing of Hoima Regional Hospital for examination. Hoima City Commissioner Badru Mugabi explained that the operation was based on intelligence reports suggesting that some individuals may be feigning mental illness to engage in criminal activities. He noted that the city has seen a surge in the number of people claiming to be mentally disturbed.
Mugabi stated that those arrested will undergo mental health assessments and thorough screening by both security and health experts. He added that individuals found to be mentally ill would receive treatment, while those deemed fit would be taken to the police and charged.
Julius Hakiza, the Albertine region police spokesperson, confirmed the operation, attributing the increase in mentally ill persons partly to drug abuse, particularly among the youth. Hakiza emphasized that security threats in the city and surrounding areas must be addressed quickly and warned that the operation would extend to other districts to restore order.
Peter Kyaligonza, a resident of Kinubi in Hoima East Division, welcomed the operation, urging authorities to conduct thorough mental health checkups to ensure no one is disguising their condition.
