The Elgon Region Police spokesperson SP Rogers Taitika has cautioned students of Mbale Progressive School against engaging in criminal activities, warning that anyone who commits a crime will face individual responsibility not the school.
Speaking on Monday June 22, 2026, during a community policing sensitization campaign at Mbale Progressive School day section, Taitika told students that When you commit a crime, you will be held accountable as a person, not as a school. We shall arrest you while your fellow students continue with their education as you suffer the consequences in prison alone.
The awareness campaign is part of ongoing efforts by the regional police to educate students on safety, responsible behavior, and crime prevention amid concerns over rising crime rates among young people in schools.
Taitika warned students against early sexual activity, indiscipline, murder, defilement, rape, drug abuse, theft, and other criminal acts.
He urged them to remain disciplined both in and outside school and focus on their studies.
Taitika also cautioned female students against accepting free rides, gifts, and favors from boda boda riders and other men, saying such offers could expose them to exploitation and come with dangerous consequences.
Taitika cited cases involving students who had lost their lives while others ended up in prison due to violent behavior, referring to a Senior Four student currently detained at Maluku Prison after allegedly stabbing a fellow student and those who attacked a student Lion's park on his way home.
“How can a student end up in prison over something that could have been avoided? That is why we come to speak to you and encourage you to report incidents before they escalate,” he said.
He further encouraged students to report cases of abuse, violence, and other threats to teachers, parents, or the police, noting that silence could lead to devastating consequences such as death, pregnancy, or continued victimization.
“Take your education seriously and pass, you never know when an opportunity will come your way. Even those who stop at Senior Four can join the police force only if you passed, but failing to study limits your future opportunities,” he said.
Mbale Progressive School Head Teacher Julius Ocukul commended Taitika for dedicating time to engage and guide students through this sensitization programme.
Hassan Hakia, a Senior Five student, observed that many young people struggle with depression and emotional challenges, making it difficult for them to open up to teachers, parents, or police officers.
She proposed the establishment of a mental health club at the school to provide a safe space where students can express their feelings openly and support one another.
Another student, Aaron Wamono of Senior Three, questioned reports of some police officers allegedly demanding money before registering cases and asked how students could protect themselves when attacked without resorting to violence.
Students also requested the reinstatement of a police post that previously operated near the junction between Mbale SS and the Indian Temple, saying it would help improve security for learners in the area.
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