Uganda Is Safe Despite UK Terror Alert- Police Assures Ugandans

Uganda police have assured Ugandans that the country is safe despite an alert issued by the UK government of an impending terror attack in Uganda,

According to police spokesperson Fred Enaga, security is on high alert and they are on top of the situation.

In an alert to its citizens last week, the UK government warned of attacks that “could be indiscriminate or against foreign nationals or places frequented by foreign nationals.”

“We want to reassure Ugandans that the country has been generally peaceful for many years despite existing threats targeting soft targets,” Enanga said.

Previously, similar terror alerts have been issued by the UK and US governments and in a number of cases, these have been followed by actual attacks.

For example, last month, there was a terror alert and this was followed by the attack on Rubhiriha Secondary School by suspected ADF rebels in Kasese.

Speaking on Monday, the joint security spokesperson said despite the terror alert and travel advisory, they remain committed to foiling any attacks on the country.

He however noted that the manner in which the alert was issued makes it difficult to know the exact target and identity of the said attacks.

“The way the advisory was released makes it difficult for security agencies to determine the specifics because it comes in form of general information and doesn’t mention the targets. We acknowledge the concern and use the general information shared to determine which protective measures to be put in place by the joint security agencies.”

Enanga said the biggest threat to the country remains ADF rebel group but noted the group has suffered a bloody nose in recent years since the attack on Kampala in November 2021.

“Their bases in DRC have been dismantled whereas their domestic cells inside Uganda have also been dismantled and a number of their agents killed as well as disrupting their recruitment and training of terrorists. Their collaborators and agents have been rounded up.”

The joint security spokesperson however warned that since security starts with individuals, it is recommended that every member of the public is vigilant about their surroundings.

“It is important that members of the public report any suspicious behaviour and person when in public or private places. If you hear or see something unusual, report to the police. Any small piece of information can be useful.”