Uganda city security gets a boost

(eTN) – The Inspector General of Police, Maj. Gen. Kale Kayihura, announced over the weekend that in order to boost security within Uganda’s capital city, a new squad has been formed, which will patrol the city 24/7 on motorcycles. The new unit started work already last weekend after receiving 300 new motorcycles and receiving training on how to use them and carry out their duties.

While some residents dismissed this as a publicity stunt and linked it to the upcoming election period, the majority of those this correspondent spoke with expressed relief that more police would be on the streets, able to help with traffic congestion or in the immediate area where police presence could be required to stem petty crime or chase down offenders. In particular, some regular sources from within the tourism industry expressed their delight, saying that this measure would make the city safer for tourist visitors and locals, and boost tourists’ shopping expeditions into the main trading areas of town while encouraging them to walking in the city.

It was also announced by the President recently, during his state of the nation address, that the Ugandan police force would be increased by 4,000 new officers to cater to the growing demand on the force’s manpower and fulfill the loss of personnel through retirement or voluntary departure.