Walewale residents decry rising shop burglaries amid curfew
Initially enforced from 6 PM to 6 AM, the curfew was later adjusted on February 27 to run from 8 PM to 5 AM. However, even with security forces patrolling at night, criminals continue to target businesses along major roads, prompting fears over worsening security.
Despite adhering to a government-imposed curfew since February 15, 2025, residents of Walewale and neighboring communities—including Loagri, Kukua, Sayoo, Jarigbani, Gbimsi, and Wulugu—are grappling with a surge in shop burglaries, leaving local business owners deeply concerned.
Initially enforced from 6 PM to 6 AM, the curfew was later adjusted on February 27 to run from 8 PM to 5 AM. However, even with security forces patrolling at night, criminals continue to target businesses along major roads, prompting fears over worsening security.
On March 9, thieves struck a shop at the Walewale market along the main hospital road, making away with gas cylinders, blenders, televisions, rice cookers, and other electronic appliances.
Adam Osman, the affected shop owner, voiced his frustration, attributing the rise in theft to the curfew restrictions.
“This morning, when we arrived at our shop, we found the entrance completely broken. There are two shops within the same fence, and both were hit,” Osman lamented.
He questioned the curfew’s effectiveness, arguing that instead of ensuring security, it had created more opportunities for criminals.
“The curfew is to blame. If not for its existence, I don’t believe these incidents would have been happening at this rate. My shop is just one of many that have been broken into since it started,” he explained.
Osman appealed to the government to reconsider the curfew, emphasizing the devastating impact on businesses.
“I urge the authorities to lift this curfew and let us live in peace. There was no fighting in Walewale before this. They claim they are restoring order, but instead, they are making things worse.
“Business owners are struggling, and we need the government to listen and allow us to operate freely,” he pleaded.
While reports of military brutality in the area have decreased, residents continue to press for an end to the curfew, arguing that it has done more harm than good for both security and local commerce.
