Uniform for Prisons tactical unit unveiled

The Uganda Prisons Service has introduced a uniform for its safety and security unit, a tactical force tasked with guarding key installations, protecting very important persons (VIPs) and escorting hardcore criminals.

This announcement was made by Prisons spokesperson Frank Baine during the joint weekly security briefing at the Police headquarters in Naguru, Kampala on October 14, 2024.

Baine clarified that the new uniform is not intended to replace the current working attire of prison officers but is specifically designed for the specialised tasks performed by the safety and security unit.

“The nature of their job sometimes involves maneouvering and the regular working uniform is not suitable for that,” he said.

He emphasized that this new segment of the uniform was created to support officers in executing their duties effectively.

“It’s not true that we have introduced this uniform to replace the old one. The old uniform remains in place for general use, while this new one is meant for a specific unit dealing with special situations”.

In addition to unveiling the new uniform, Baine addressed concerns surrounding the spread of mpox, a health issue affecting inmates in two prisons: Masindi, with two cases, and Nakasogola, with one case.

According to Baine, all affected inmates are currently in recovery, and an isolation center has been established in case of future outbreaks.

Baine assured the public that measures are in place to monitor the situation and that media access to affected areas remains restricted for the time being.

“We are not allowing outside media into the prisons affected by Mpoxas we continue preparations to manage the situation,” he said.

Furthermore, Baine provided an update on prison operations, stating that 40,869 individuals are currently under the care of the Uganda Prisons Service, while 36,635 remain on remand.  A total of 532  are debtors totaling with 78,036 inmates.