North Kioga residents urged to remain vigilant ahead of festive season

16 December 2025, 11:20

By Winnie Auma

In his message, the North Kioga Police spokesperson, Jimmy Patrick Okema, said security agencies are on heightened alert to ensure that people across the region can celebrate in a peaceful and orderly manner.

Okema noted that this season is unique as it coincides with the 2026 General Elections period, but is also traditionally marked by joy, family reunions, and travel. He cautioned, however, that such excitement can sometimes attract criminal activity, including theft, house break-ins, and domestic violence.

He therefore warned residents against leaving their homes unattended, advising them to inform a trusted neighbour when travelling, strengthen neighbourhood watch groups, and maintain close contact with nearby police stations to report any suspicious persons or movements immediately.

For quick response and reporting of incidents, he urged the public to use the following numbers:

• 0800 199 699 – Toll Free
• 0707 600 773 – Airtel
• 0776 999 136 – MTN
• 0800 121 222 or 112 and 999 – Toll-free lines for fire emergencies.

Okema urged event organisers to ensure that all events are approved in writing by the Regional Police Commander (RPC), except for fireworks displays, which require clearance from the Office of the Inspector General of Police (IGP).

He added that organisers are required to jointly plan security measures with the District Security Committees and other relevant regulatory authorities. Venues must meet safety standards, with particular emphasis on clear exits, emergency firefighting equipment, first aid facilities, and adequate lighting.

Okema stated that overcrowding is prohibited, emphasising that venues must not host numbers exceeding their capacity. He added that advertising artists who do not attend events is a criminal offence, and such fraud will be investigated and prosecuted.

He further noted that the festive season sees increased movement on roads and waterways, with common risks including drunk driving, overloading, reckless driving, and failure to use safety gear such as helmets, seatbelts, and life jackets, among others.

Okema assured that the Uganda Police Regional Headquarters will intensify enforcement operations, particularly targeting public service vehicles to ensure passenger safety, and will monitor water transport to ensure vessels are not overloaded and only seaworthy boats are operated.