Uganda Police top leadership has downplayed reports that terrorists from DRC are planning to hit Ugandan capital, Kampala.
A circular by Director Counter Terrorism, AIGP Abas Byakagaba further suggested that these fundamentalists belonging at an Islamic State (IS) based in DRC were targeting Kampala’s busiest places like Balikuddembe Market (Owino).
Byakagaba therefore asked police to be on high alert, make use of its intelligence and activate foot and moralized patrols.
However, police later refuted this information after the notice leaked to the media.
We have noted with serious concern, leakage of a circular, warning our Territorial Commanders to remain vigilant over an invisible threat. The information was routine and not announced publicly, because it did not warrant any responses from the public. We would like to reassure the public that there is no credible and specific threat at this stage against our country,” police spokesperson CP Fred Enanga announced.
He adds: “As always, we shall only provide the public with information about threats that are credible and visible. It usually includes the various steps they can take to better protect themselves, their families, business and communities.”
He asked the public to go about their activities and businesses normally without any fear.
“We shall communicate any possible dangers or the need for vigilance, when the situation warrants.
We continue to monitor the prevailing security situation based on our intelligence and will respond appropriate to protect our citizens and visitors from any threats.
We are meanwhile investigating the leakage of official documents meant for our internal circulation only. It will focus on identifying the culprits and how it was publicly leaked. A decision will be made to prosecute them in our disciplinary or criminal courts once investigations are completed.”