Police have sounded a strong warning to parents as the school holiday begins, stressing that the biggest threat to children often comes from within their own homes and familiar environments.
The Kampala Metropolitan Police spokesperson Racheal Kawala urged parents to prioritize active supervision, open communication, and responsible parenting throughout the holiday period.
“Let us inform the public that defilers and child abusers can also be in your homes,” Kawala warned. “We have cases where uncles defile children, even aunties. Both boys and girls can be victims.”
Kawala said many children return from school with undisclosed emotional and physical struggles, urging parents to create time to talk with them and encourage openness.
“Most of these children go through a lot while at school. Let us encourage them to avoid keeping secrets. Let them talk, let them speak out,” she said.
She noted that while technology has become essential for schoolwork, it also exposes children to dangerous content online. Parents, she said, must be vigilant about what children watch on television, social media, and phones.
Kawala further urged parents to dress their children appropriately to avoid situations where predators may mistake minors for adults.
The police spokesperson also highlighted irresponsible parenting habits that put children at risk.
“We have cases where parents take their own children to bars—going with a child until morning,” she said. “Let us be exemplary. Watch what we do in front of our children.”
She advised parents to limit unsupervised visits to neighbors, relatives, shops, and friends’ homes, noting that several abuse cases occur in such settings.
“Children should at all times be attended to. Let us avoid leaving our children unattended.”
Police say they will intensify community awareness efforts to curb rising cases of child abuse during the holiday season.
