UGANDA - The Police have received information that five terrorists are suspected to have sneaked into the country. The terrorists were identified as Ali Salah Adan, Naim A. Amur, Abdullah Ahmed Abdullah, Abderraouf Jdey and Mohamed Nor Ali.

They are said to be active members of the Somali-based al-Shabaab terror-cell that is planning to strike in the country, according to deputy Police spokesperson Vincent Ssekatte.

The Police, supported by the other sister security agencies, have stepped up vigilance to avert the terror attack, Ssekate told journalists at the Central Police Station on Thursday.

Left to right: (Top) Abdullah Ahmed Abdullah, Ali Salah Adan, Mohamed Nor Ali, (Bottom) Naim A. Amur, Abderraouf Jdey

The public has been urged to inform Police and local authorities about any suspicious or abandoned items like packages, bags, cars, boxes, unexpected gifts, flowers, flasks, mail and parcels, abandoned suitcases, dustbins, electronics; including, radios watches, cameras, mobile phones, television sets and any other items with loose wires attached.

“They should also look out for dubious liquids packed in bottles and immediately alert the Police. People should ensure all their premises are kept neat and clean. All garbage and rubbish containers, excessive stock and equipment must be removed,” Ssekate said.

The Police have displayed the terror suspect’s pictures on the streets, hospitals and border entry points to assist in their capture if seen.

The nationalities of the suspects were not identified. “The Police are still working with the sister security agencies regarding the nationality of the suspects,” Ssekate said.

To eliminate any possible ‘bomb shelters or hideouts’, the Police have advised that all rubbish cans and containers be removed from premises, passages, toilets and all public places.

“Even all office cupboards and entry panels for wiring and plumbing must be locked away, when not in use,” Ssekate added.

Owners of public venues, events and buildings have been told to ensure 24-hour surveillance and thorough checks.

Ssekate said there should be metal detectors and dogs (if possible) at all entry points to detect the possible intrusion of explosive materials like bombs.

Owners of enclosed public venues were advised to install security lights and alarms along their perimeter fences.

Bus and taxi operators have been asked to work closely with Police and other security agencies to put in place access control gadgets, and enhance internal security measures.

(Compiled by Simon Masaba, Andrew Ssenyonga, Andrew Jeff Lule and Innocent. Anguyo)