By James Alomu

Growing frustration among vendors at Soroti Main Market has reached a boiling point, as repeated thefts continue to plague the facility, raising serious concerns over the market’s security infrastructure. At the center of the storm is the malfunctioning CCTV system, which vendors claim has failed to deter criminals or provide any useful evidence in recent incidents.

During the Annual General Meeting (AGM) held at the market premises, Samuel Aliabu, the interim chairperson of the market leadership, voiced strong criticism of the current security setup.

He stated that the non-functional CCTV cameras have done little to prevent theft or assist in investigations, describing the system as “virtually useless.”

“We are tired of these constant break-ins. Every time vendors lose property, there is no footage, no evidence, no accountability. The cameras are simply not working,” Aliabu said. “It leaves us wondering ,is this CCTV system real security, or just a scam?”

Vendors echoed his concerns, citing frequent thefts during nighttime hours when the market is closed. Several stalls have been broken into, with goods stolen and properties damaged, further straining the livelihoods of traders already grappling with economic pressures.

Aliabu revealed that the market leadership has formally engaged Soroti City Council, urging them to urgently procure a modern CCTV system with wider coverage and improved functionality. He also recommended the installation of stronger padlocks and reinforced stall security to help deter intruders.

However, questions are now being raised about how the previous CCTV system was procured, why it has failed, and who should be held accountable. Some vendors accuse local authorities of neglect and mismanagement, demanding transparency on past expenditures and urgent action to restore trust.

With vendors’ livelihoods at risk and public confidence in city leadership wavering, many are now asking: Was the CCTV promise a safety solution  or just a costly illusion?