Museveni’s Lira visit: Police issue tight security and traffic advisory ahead of Saturday event

________________  

Residents of Lira City and the wider North Kyoga sub-region have been urged to remain vigilant and cooperate with security personnel ahead of President Yoweri Museveni’s visit scheduled for Saturday, April 18, 2026.

Police say elaborate joint security arrangements have already been activated to guarantee the safety of the Head of State and thousands of expected attendees at Lango College Playground.

According to Patrick Jimmy Okema, the North Kyoga Region Police Spokesperson, the regional police command, working closely with the UPDF, Uganda Prisons Service, intelligence agencies, and other security organs, has rolled out a comprehensive deployment and operational plan ahead of the President’s visit.

The event follows an invitation extended by the Director General of the External Security Organisation, Ambassador Joseph Ocwet.

The public has been invited to attend the official function, which will take place at Lango College Playground.

Police warned that the large number of people expected from across neighbouring districts could lead to heavy traffic congestion within Lira City and on major access roads.

Motorists and all road users have therefore been advised to plan their journeys early, avoid reckless driving, and strictly observe traffic regulations to reduce the risk of accidents.

Security agencies have also urged members of the public to stay alert to possible threats, including terrorism, robbery, pickpocketing, theft, drug abuse, and other criminal activities that often arise during major public gatherings.

All attendees will be subjected to mandatory screening at the venue through walk-through security scanners operated by trained personnel.

Police have further called on the public to immediately report any suspicious individuals, items, or activities to the nearest security officer.

To reinforce safety, the police said they will intensify both foot and motorised patrols, especially in crime-prone areas, while intelligence-led operations will be carried out to neutralise emerging threats.

The CCTV Command Centre will also maintain round-the-clock surveillance and relay real-time updates to commanders on the ground for swift response.

The North Kyoga Regional Police Command has assured the public of its full preparedness and reaffirmed its constitutional mandate to protect life and property, maintain law and order, and ensure the visit proceeds peacefully.

“Security is a shared responsibility,” the police emphasised.