The Uganda Police Force (UPF) recently issued a warning regarding the misuse of police uniforms and insignia by private security organizations and civilians. The police emphasized the significance of the police uniform as a symbol of authority and public safety, stressing its role in distinguishing officers from civilians and signaling whom the public should approach in times of need.
Despite its importance, the Police Force has observed an alarming trend of unauthorized adoption and manipulation of police uniforms by various groups and individuals. Private security organizations, bouncers associations, political groups, and individuals have been noted to wear police-style uniforms, including the darker black attire for counter-terrorism units, khaki uniforms for general duties, and white uniforms for traffic police. Additionally, these groups have been found to use police rank insignia, shoes, belts, and lanyards, aiming to project an authoritarian and militaristic image.
Such actions are deemed illegal and are to cease immediately, as outlined in the regulations governing Private Security Organizations (PSOs). The unauthorized duplication and manipulation of police uniforms and insignia, as well as those of sister agencies like the Uganda People’s Defense Forces (UPDF) and Prisons Services, violate existing laws such as the UPDF Act, Penal Code, and other statutory instruments that regulate uniforms.
In response to these violations, the UPF has conducted operations to confiscate unauthorized police-style attire from private security organizations and other groups. Items such as high-visibility vests, jackets, sunglasses, and black attire have been seized from bouncers and other PSOs, as these outfits were deemed to create a militaristic appearance and influence public perceptions wrongly. These operations are ongoing to ensure compliance with the law.
SCP Enanga Fred, the Police Spokesperson, reiterated the importance of respecting and upholding the integrity of the police uniform. The misuse of police attire not only undermines the authority of the police force but also poses risks to public safety and security. Therefore, the UPF remains vigilant in enforcing regulations to prevent unauthorized uniform adoption and maintain the public’s trust in law enforcement.
Authorities have urged private security organizations, bouncers, political groups, and individuals to adhere to the law and refrain from impersonating law enforcement officers as the UPF continues its efforts to combat the misuse of police uniforms and insignia. 1″Ensuring the proper use of police attire is essential for maintaining order and public trust in the justice system.”, Fred Enanga said in his weekly briefing statement on Monday.
