(SOROTI) – The anti-riot Police in Soroti are actively patrolling the city streets to prevent planned demonstrations against corruption. These measures are being led by District Police Commander Clement Okanya, who is overseeing patrols in both the city center and its surrounding suburbs.
Kyoga East Police region spokesperson, Edison Obukulem, stated on Tuesday, July 23, 2024, that intelligence reports have indicated that some individuals are planning to exploit the protests to loot businesses. He emphasized that the demonstration had not received clearance from the Inspector General of Police, making any such gathering illegal.
According to Obukulem, the intelligence gathered suggests that these elements are not just aiming to protest but also to disrupt public order by targeting the properties of business owners. This information has prompted the police to take preemptive action to safeguard the city and its residents.
The security patrols are a visible reminder of the police’s commitment to maintaining order and preventing unlawful activities. The presence of law enforcement officers is intended to discourage any potential looters and ensure the safety of both businesses and the public.
Law Enforcement and Preventive Measures
| Authority | Action | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| District Police Commander | Leading city patrols | Preventing unauthorized demonstrations |
| Kyoga East Police spokesperson | Intelligence gathering | Identifying potential threats |
| Anti-riot Police | Street patrolling | Deterring looting and maintaining order |
The police have reiterated that any public demonstration must receive prior approval from the Inspector General of Police.
Despite the anticipation of a march to Parliament as part of an anti-corruption campaign, business activities in the city have remained normal. Shops are open, and traffic has been flowing smoothly since morning.
In various parts of Nakawa Division, extending to Mukono district, police and military personnel are stationed at multiple junctions. Patrols and mobile detention vans are visible, ensuring a strong security presence.
To manage the flow of motorists on the Nakawa-Mukono road, which is currently under construction, traffic police deployment has been tripled. Additionally, heavy security can be seen at Namboole National Stadium in Bweyogerere, where the Rugby African Championships started on Saturday.
The police have deployed these measures to prevent any processions that could disrupt traffic and business operations. This was confirmed by Police Spokesperson Rusoke Kituuma during a press briefing at the Police headquarters in Naguru, Nakawa Division in Kampala on Monday.
Kituuma explained that on July 15, 2024, the Police issued a warning to individuals mobilizing through social media for a march to Parliament. These individuals had informed Inspector General of Police, Abas Byakagaba, about their intentions to hold a procession and demonstration.
“The mobilisation placards called upon Ugandans to occupy all streets in Kampala as part of their march to Parliament. From the Police perspective, such a mass occupation of the streets would likely result in significant traffic congestion, disruption of trade, and disturbances to public order,” Kituuma stated.
In an attempt to prevent potential chaos, the Uganda Police Force (UPF) met with the organizers on July 18, 2024, at police headquarters. Following a thorough security assessment, the UPF formally advised the organizers to reconsider their approach.
“We reiterate our position that the UPF shall not tolerate disorderly conduct,” Kituuma emphasized.
Police Deployment Overview
| Location | Action | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Nakawa Division to Mukono district | Stationing police and military personnel | Preventing processions and maintaining order |
| Nakawa-Mukono road | Tripling traffic police deployment | Easing traffic flow during road construction |
| Namboole National Stadium | Heavy security presence | Hosting the Rugby African Championships |
Residents and business owners in the city have responded positively to the security measures, appreciating the efforts to maintain order and ensure the continuity of daily activities. The police have made it clear that while they support peaceful protests, any actions that threaten public safety and order will not be tolerated.
Heavy Security Deployment Surrounds Parliament Ahead of Planned Protest
Joint security forces have been deployed at and around the Parliament premises, restricting access to routes leading to the building. This increased security presence is a response to a planned march by activists protesting against alleged corruption.
Activists had scheduled the march to Parliament for Tuesday, July 23, 2024. In anticipation, police have taken extensive measures to secure the area and ensure order.
In addition to the Parliament premises, access to nearby routes has been limited. This heavy deployment aims to prevent any disruptions or potential threats posed by the planned protest.
Police officers are actively guiding traffic flow in the city to minimize congestion and maintain smooth movement despite the heightened security measures.
