Northern Uganda schools hit by spate of goalpost thefts

At least ten schools in Oyam district, northern Uganda, have reported the disappearance of essential sporting equipment in a recent spate of thefts, sparking alarm among education officials and parents.

According to the Oyam district education department, affected institutions include Bario primary school, Bar Romo primary school, Tegony primary school, Ototong primary school, Iyanyi primary school, and Abok primary school, among others.

Thieves are said to be selectively dismantling and stealing goalposts, netball posts, and school bells. At Abok primary school, headteacher Charles Okello fears culprits may be using incapacitating substances to overcome the lone watchman before removing heavy equipment.

Oyam district education officer (DEO) David Adea confirmed he has logged more than ten similar reports. Abok sub-county chairperson Philips Ogile urged community leaders, parents, and local security teams to bolster vigilance around school premises.