Wakiso– The territorial police in KMP North and Nabweru Police are investigating an extortion ring in Nabweru that is issuing threats of arson to selected head teachers over the phone, if they did not part with money.
According to Fred Enanga, the police spokesperson, so far, two head teachers in Nabweru, have been contacted by an anonymous caller on phone number 0700514784, where the persons behind the call, claim to have been hired from Luwero, to purposely burn their schools.
“On the 24.06.2022, they called and issued threats to the head teacher of Exford Nursery and Primary School, Joseph Nkoyoyo, after getting his number from the school sign post at around 1:40pm. A similar threat of arson was made to the headteacher of Prosper Junior School, Mary Treasure Kuliro, by anonymous callers on the same number. After failed attempts, another caller used the same number, to demand Ugx 150,000 from the head teachers, claiming he knew the owners of the school, and wanted to volunteer information to them.” Says Enanga
The police publicist says 12 suspects have so far been arrested and are thoroughly being screened at Nabweru police.
“We want to assure the head teachers and the public that this is a scam, designed to scare them, into handing over money without seeking any further assistance. We do thank the head teachers for being responsible and encourage other potential victims, to report such scams to police, to help dismantle such extortion gangs and to help us monitor trends.” Notes Enanga
He also cautioned other people like government officials, business owners, those looking for jobs and vulnerable persons especially the elders to be very careful with scammers who use dishonest methods to contact potential victims and attempt to pressure them with threats to pay or blackmail.
“Therefore, we urge all members of the public to be very cautious while communicating on phone and avoid sharing any personal information with strangers or people you have never met in person. These criminals will try to get contacts from signposts, business cards or randomly and then demand money or forms in exchange for not causing damage to your property, life or blackmail and propaganda.” said Enanga
The public have also been advised to validate information such as phone details and offer to meet in person at secure locations. “Otherwise, stop communication immediately with these scammers and do not send money, to them because it will not stop them from demanding more money from you.” Warns Enanga
