Yumbe, Uganda – November 8, 2025

In a direct and impassioned address to the Muslim community, the Regional Police Commander for North West Nile, SS Afande Mwesige Joseph, has sounded the alarm on the growing threat of religious extremism in Yumbe District, stressing that true Islam has no place for violence or chaos.

Speaking yesterday, November 7, at Takwa Mosque during a well-attended community meeting, RPC Mwesige didn’t mince words. “Islam is about peace, unity, and progress,” he told the gathered crowd. “Anyone using the name of religion to justify crime or destruction is not a follower of Islam—they are criminals, plain and simple.”

His remarks come in the wake of troubling incidents on November 4, which saw unrest that left property damaged and raised fears of deeper division. While details of those events remain under investigation, the police chief made it clear: those responsible will be hunted down and prosecuted. “The law will take its course,” he assured. “No one is above it.”

But the message wasn’t just about crackdowns. RPC Mwesige took the opportunity to call on residents—especially the youth—to channel their energy into government-backed programs like the Parish Development Model (PDM). “These initiatives are real pathways to jobs, skills, and better lives,” he said. “When young people are busy building, they’re not out destroying.”

He warned against the dangers of protests that spiral into violence, pointing out that such actions only lead to injuries, arrests, and setbacks for the entire community. “We’ve seen it before—good intentions turn into tragedy because a few agitators hijack the moment.”

The RPC also put local leaders, religious figures, and influencers on notice: stop inciting unrest. Instead, he urged them to promote dialogue, understanding, and cooperation with authorities. “The police door is open,” he said. “We want to work with you, not against you.”

Superintendent Asea Collins, speaking on behalf of the North West Nile Region police, echoed the call for calm and collaboration. “Yumbe has always been a peaceful district,” he noted. “Let’s keep it that way—together.”

Community members who attended the meeting described the tone as firm but fair. One elder, speaking anonymously, said, “The RPC spoke like a father to his children. He reminded us what our faith really stands for.”

As Yumbe navigates these tense times, the police have stepped up patrols and engagement efforts. Residents are being encouraged to report suspicious activities and to support local peace-building initiatives.

For now, the message from the top is clear: reject extremism, embrace development, and choose peace over provocation.

Written by

Andrew Ogwang

Andrew Ogwang is a dedicated Ugandan journalist based in the Northern Region, with a focus on economic reporting, current affairs, and social issues affecting the country. Ogwang has contributed to several local media outlets, including print and digital platforms like The Northern Press, where he has covered topics ranging from policy developments and community stories to investigative pieces on development challenges in Uganda.