crime 14 July 2026 The Observer (Uganda)
Teens Nabbed for Attempting to Steal School's Lightning System
Three teenagers are in custody in Kabale following their arrest for breaking into Kabale Primary School (DEMO School) and attempting to steal its lightning protection system. The suspects reportedly aimed to sell the equipment as scrap metal. Source: https://observer.ug/news/three-teens-arrested-over-theft-of-lightning-protection-system-at-kabale-school
Authorities in Kabale have apprehended three teenagers in connection with a brazen break-in at Kabale Primary School, also known as DEMO School. The incident, which occurred in the early hours of Friday, July 10th, involved an attempt to steal the school’s lightning protection system.
The head teacher, Nelson Byomuhangi, reported that the suspects allegedly incapacitated a night watchman before disabling a CCTV camera in an effort to evade detection. However, the watchman managed to alert his colleagues, who intercepted the perpetrators in the act of dismantling the lightning arrester from a classroom block.
The suspects fled the scene, leaving behind clothing and shoes. A review of CCTV footage by the school and police helped identify one individual, who was later arrested when he returned to retrieve his abandoned belongings. This suspect then led police to a nearby bushland where the other two were apprehended.
According to Kigezi Regional Police spokesperson Nelson Tumushime, the arrested youths confessed their intention to sell the stolen equipment as scrap metal. This attempted theft highlights significant safety concerns, particularly in the Kigezi sub-region, which is highly susceptible to lightning strikes.
Recent incidents, including the lightning-related deaths and injuries of pupils in Kabale and surrounding areas, underscore the critical importance of functional lightning protection systems. The National Risk and Vulnerability Atlas identifies Kigezi as a high-risk zone for lightning. This incident also follows a recent spate of school thefts in Kabale Municipality, including the substantial theft of computers from Hornby High School Junior.