Kampala — THE UPDF has intensified operations in Karamoja sub-region ahead of the Christmas festive season. The 3rd Division spokesman, Capt. Henry Obbo, on Thursday said the new security measures are aimed at reducing crime during the festive season.

"Check-points have been set up to see that no more arms are sneaked in or out of the region. Patrols have also been increased in the corridors where these cattle rustlers pass when going to raid," Obbo said.

He noted that most Karimojong students resort to raiding during holidays in a bid to raise school fees.

Obbo disclosed that 27,319 guns have been recovered since the start of the disarmament exercise in Karamoja in 2001. He expressed disappointment with the people who politicise the exercise and call it a failure.

"How can somebody travel to Karamoja, carry out political rallies without any ambush on the road, then say the disarmament is flop?" Obbo said, reacting to reports that Forum for Democratic Change president, Dr. Kizza Besigye, had rubbished the disarmament exercise.

He appealed to the business community and transport companies to invest in Karamoja, saying the region was now secure.

"People have even started going to the discos. There are taxis that leave Moroto to other regions as late as 6:00pm. This is a sign of security," Obbo said.