The Uganda Police Operations Director, AIGP Edward Ochom has ordered all territorial commanders countrywide to strictly enforce the Covid19 guidelines given by the Ministry of Health and arrest whoever violates them without fail.

He communicated through a memo seen by this website and copied to all Regional and District police commanders as well as officers in charge of all police stations in the country.

“It has been observed with great concern that there is laxity in enforcement of the Covid19 guidelines given by ministry of health,” reads part of Ochom’s memo.

According to Ochom, the laxity has led to an increase in the spread of COVID-19 pandemic which has endangered the lives of Ugandans.

He pointed out that the public has relaxed on preventive measures such as wearing masks in taxis, boda bodas and public places which had provided a fertile ground for the spread of the novel virus.

Director Ochom also noted that the curfew time of 9:00pm has not been fully observed and as a result Bars, Shops/ Arcades, passenger service vehicles are operating beyond curfew time.

“You are therefore directed to fully enforce the M.O.H guidelines. Take appropriate action against anybody disregarding the directives and always endeavour to get evidence of such incidents or acts by capturing both video and photographic evidence to ease investigations and prosecution of offenders,” he said

He also ordered his men to entertain no exceptions during the enforcement.

“Serious action will be taken against errant commanders who neglect to enforce the directives,” Ochom warned.