Security bans sale of fuel, flammable products in plastic containers

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Wamala Region security has directed fuel dealers to immediately halt the sale of petrol and other flammable products to people carrying plastic bottles, jerrycans and other suspicious containers, as part of heightened measures ahead of polling day for the President and Members of Parliament.

Wamala region comprises the districts of Kassanda, Kiboga, Kyankwanzi, Mityana and Mubende.

The directive follows a regional threat assessment meeting that reviewed potential security risks linked to the misuse of petroleum products during a politically tense period.

Wamala Region Police spokesperson Lameck Kigozi says the decision was taken to prevent ill-intentioned individuals from exploiting flammable substances to cause harm to the public.

“As we approach polling day, we have heightened our security posture. Following a threat assessment, we have directed all dealers in petroleum products to stop selling fuel to people carrying bottles, jerrycans or any containers that raise suspicion,” Kigozi said on January 13, 2026.

He added that the directive is informed by the political atmosphere in the region, where supporters of different candidates are actively mobilising, increasing the risk of confrontation and possible abuse of dangerous substances.

“These products pose a serious risk to public safety, especially at a time when political emotions are high. The directive is intended to curtail any potential misuse by people with criminal or violent intentions,” Kigozi added.

Security also advised motorists, bodaboda riders and other legitimate fuel users to ensure they draw fuel directly into their vehicles or motorcycles using appropriate and standard methods at fuel stations.

Kigozi further warned fuel station operators against unsafe practices, including parking fuel containers at stations during both day and night.

“We strongly discourage the parking or storage of fuel in unsecured containers at fuel stations. Station managers must ensure proper handling and storage of petroleum products at all times,” he said.

He added that security agencies will inspect and enforce operations to ensure compliance with the directive across the Wamala Region.

He also urged members of the public and fuel dealers to cooperate with security agencies, stressing that the measures are preventive and aimed at safeguarding lives and property during the electoral period.

“Our message is clear: these guidelines are for everyone’s safety. We call upon fuel dealers and the public to comply and report any suspicious activity to the nearest police station,” Kigozi said.

Security agencies across the country have intensified preventive deployments and community engagement as Uganda moves closer to polling day, with authorities repeatedly warning against actions that could undermine public order and safety.