(Kampala) – The recently opened China Town Super Store in Lugogo, Kampala, has been temporarily closed by police due to concerns over safety and security. Kampala Metropolitan Police Spokesperson, Patrick Onyango, said on September 4, 2024, that the store had become overwhelmed by the large number of customers, creating a potentially dangerous situation.
According to Onyango, over 3,000 people were entering the store daily, which had only one entry and exit point. The congestion, coupled with inadequate security, raised fears of a possible stampede or other emergencies. To prevent any such incidents, the police advised the store management to implement better control measures and temporarily closed the premises.
The police emphasized the importance of proper entry and exit procedures and advised the store to have counter-terrorism officers on-site, given the risks associated with large, congested places. In a meeting held on September 3 between the store’s managers and security officials, the store was directed to enhance its security protocols, but most of these measures had not been implemented by the time the police intervened.
On Tuesday, several shoppers who had gathered outside the store were left disappointed after it remained closed, following reports that the store’s security scanners were not functioning. The store, located at the former Game Stores in Lugogo, has attracted large crowds since its opening due to its competitive pricing on goods, but the influx of customers has presented challenges for maintaining safety.
The police reiterated that they would allow the store to reopen once all necessary security measures were in place. These include improving crowd control, ensuring proper emergency exits, and stationing trained personnel to manage the situation more effectively.
The table below outlines the key directives given to the store by police:
| Issue | Directive |
|---|---|
| Overcrowding | Implement better entry and exit procedures |
| Security gaps | Deploy more security personnel, including counter-terrorism officers |
| Emergency preparedness | Ensure proper measures to avoid stampedes and accidents |
| Malfunctioning security scanners | Fix security equipment to ensure the safety of customers |
The China Town Super Store’s popularity stems from its low-cost items, which have drawn thousands of shoppers since it opened. However, without adequate security measures in place, the risks posed by the crowds have forced the authorities to step in.
For now, the store remains closed until all the required safety protocols are met, with police continuing to monitor the situation closely.
