IGP calls for vigilance during Eid celebrations

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Police Chief Martins Okoth Ochola has urged Muslims and all Ugandans to remain vigilant during the Eid-Adha celebrations.

In a statement issued by Police spokesperson Fred Enanga, Ochola extends greetings and best wishes to all Muslims and well-wishers in Uganda and across the globe on Eid-al-Adha but emphasised the need to be watchful.

"Although there are no specific threats against Muslims, other citizens and visitors during this period, we do encourage each and everyone to remain vigilant," he says.

Ochola encourages all territorial commanders to work with all Muslim leaders in their respective jurisdictions to address and respond to all concerns of crime and safety, threats and vulnerabilities against Muslims, including patrolling all mosques and worship areas during Eid.

He also asked all Muslim institutions like Mosques, Islamic centres and schools to form security committees, that will work with the Police and sister security agencies in addressing all security concerns.

"Stay informed. Monitor the media for the latest security updates. Be aware of your surroundings and report any suspicious persons or objects to the nearest security. Take extra caution while going for early morning prayers and from late evening prayers," he added.

He stressed that during Juma prayers, all mosques and Islamic centres, must have extra security ready at the doors, checking who is entering and going out, and ensuring the parking areas are closely guarded and watch out for any suspicious vehicles.  

He urged people to avoid travelling alone, especially in isolated areas after dark and always tell a friend or neighbour when they are going and when they intend to return.

Ochola said safety is in numbers and urged people to travel in groups and to vary their routes at times of travel, stressing that being less predictable makes you more difficult to target.

He said during movements, people must find exits and have a plan to escape or safe havens along their route or trip or in shops, restaurants, fuel stations and security stations.

He tipped people to always carry a charged cell phone and ensure their emergency numbers and family contracts are programmed, and turn off location services on their smartphones or other devices, saying that criminals can use those features to establish their location.

To avoid advertising, post or broadcast the location where they are going, but only tell people after you have left that place.

Record all incidents of harassment, threatening phone calls or messages, and report them to the police.

Entertainment places

The Inspector General of Police (IGP) further urged all proprietors of social and entertainment places, to ensure the safety and security protocols at their venues are enhanced. 

"They must provide security at the interior and exterior perimeters have thorough screening and search processes, standard access controls etc. Other challenges associated with crowds at major events like keeping the venue safe against unruly guests, drunkards, congestion and breakout fights, must be carefully planned for," he said.

Ochola stressed that in the recent inspection audits of private businesses, such as arcades, markets, shopping malls, taxi and bus parks, bars, restaurants, schools etc, security noticed low levels of vigilance. 

"We, therefore, urge all proprietors and business persons to develop safety and security plans that can help counter all forms of threats. The presence of security guards alone is not sufficient. Members of the public are also urged to be extra cautious, while shopping, travelling, at places of worship, partying and celebrating," he added.

He said the joint security agencies have intensified visibility, with visible and non-visibility, with visible tactical response teams, foot and motorised patrols across all regions, aimed at detecting, preventing and disrupting all forms of threats and acts of violence against Ugandans and visitors in the country.