Police spokesperson, Rusoke Kituuma said that according to preliminary reports, students protested over what they described as insufficient food.
Police have launched investigations into two separate incidents of student unrest that led to significant destruction of school property in Kumi District and Kiruhura District on the night of April 16, 2026.
In Kumi District, the disturbance occurred at Kumi Technical School at around 7:30 p.m. during supper time.
Police spokesperson, Rusoke Kituuma said that according to preliminary reports, students protested over what they described as insufficient food. The situation quickly escalated into a strike, during which students allegedly broke into the school’s computer laboratory and damaged 14 computers.
Kituuma added that doors and windows of several classrooms were also destroyed, and the head teacher’s office was vandalized, with furniture and other items left in ruins.
“Police officers responded promptly, securing the school and restoring calm. Statements have been recorded from witnesses, and a case of malicious damage to property has been opened,” he said. Authorities say efforts are underway to identify and apprehend those responsible.
In a related incident the same night, students of Mburo Secondary School in Kanyaryeru, Kiruhura District, staged a strike that resulted in the destruction of school property, including surveillance cameras and window panes. During the unrest, several male students reportedly fled the school and dispersed into nearby trading centres.
Officers from Sanga Police Station intervened swiftly, regaining control of the situation and preventing further damage. Police have since maintained a presence at the school to ensure stability, while investigations into the cause of the strike continue.
Authorities have strongly condemned the acts of violence and destruction, urging students to use peaceful and lawful means to express grievances. School administrators have been advised to improve communication with students and address concerns promptly to prevent similar incidents.
Parents and guardians are also being called upon to guide their children on discipline and constructive conflict resolution. Police reaffirmed their commitment to working closely with schools to maintain safety, warning that anyone found responsible for vandalism will face legal consequences.