The Inspector General of Police Abbas Byakagaba has issued a directive recalling all police officers on leave to ensure heightened security during the Christmas and New Year celebrations. The directive, effective December 15, 2024, also suspends all new leave requests until January 15, 2025.

“Officers on leave must return to duty immediately, and no further leave requests will be approved during this period,” read the IGP’s directive.

The Uganda Police Force, which comprises over 49,000 officers, typically allows more than 2,000 personnel to take leave monthly for various reasons, including annual, maternity, study, or emergency leave. However, the festive season demands full manpower to address security concerns.

Since November, Kampala Metropolitan has seen an uptick in violent crimes, particularly by machete-wielding gangs in areas like Kira, Kasaayi, Kagala, Namwezi, Nabusugwe, Nabweru, Masitoowa, and Lubigi.

To bolster community safety, Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIGP) Ubaldo Bamunoba has been spearheading outreach programs across Kampala. These efforts, conducted in neighborhoods like Bwaise, Kaleerwe, and Kawempe, aim to educate residents about crime prevention and encourage collaboration with law enforcement.

“I urge residents to utilize emergency police numbers for swift assistance,” AIGP Bamunoba said during an engagement. “It is critical that the community works together with us to combat crime during this festive period.”

Joint security forces have reassured the public of their commitment to ensuring a peaceful and secure holiday season. Additionally, AIGP Bamunoba has called for responsible road use, emphasizing the importance of caution and discipline to minimize traffic accidents and save lives.

The police urge citizens to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity as they work to guarantee safety during the celebrations.