Police has urged parents and guardians to tighten the protection and supervision of children as schools break off for the second-term holidays, warning that the period often comes with increased cases of sexual abuse, child neglect, exploitation and accidents.
Police spokesperson ACP Kituuma Rusoke said the August holiday should be a time for children to rest and spend time with their families, but warned that it also exposes them to various risks if they are left unsupervised.
“We call upon parents, guardians, communities, school leaders and all duty bearers to place the protection, supervision and well-being of children at the centre of this holiday period,” Rusoke said.
According to Police, holiday periods usually record cases involving violations of children’s rights, sexual violence, harmful child labour, neglect and offences committed against or among children.
Rusoke said Police are particularly concerned about sexual abuse, noting that perpetrators are often people known to the child or family, including relatives, neighbours, guardians and employers.
“Parents and guardians are urged to know where their children are, whom they associate with, and to take seriously any change in behaviour, fear, unexplained injuries, withdrawal or disclosure by a child,” he said.
Police also warned parents against leaving children in the care of people whose character or surroundings raise concern, and urged communities to watch out for isolated places, trading centres and entertainment spots where children may be exposed to alcohol, drugs or sexual exploitation.
The force reminded caregivers that corporal punishment is not an acceptable form of discipline, saying deliberately inflicting pain or fear on a child may amount to abuse with serious physical and psychological consequences.
Police further cautioned against child labour, saying children should not be engaged in hazardous work such as carrying heavy loads, operating dangerous machinery or being exposed to chemicals, alcohol or drugs.
Rusoke also issued a warning to owners of bars, lodges and entertainment venues against involving children in sexual or pornographic performances, locally known as ebimansulo.
“Such conduct is criminal, and all persons involved in organising, facilitating, promoting or benefiting from it will be investigated and held accountable,” he said.
The force also condemned the practice of parents accepting compensation from suspects after children are sexually abused, saying the so-called “sorting” is illegal because it denies children justice and allows offenders to continue targeting other victims.
Police advised school proprietors and head teachers to use the holiday to review safety measures at their institutions, including fire prevention, boarding safety, transport arrangements and emergency preparedness.
Rusoke urged the public to remain vigilant and report suspected child abuse to the nearest police station, emphasising that protecting children is a shared responsibility.
