In the wake of a recent terror alert issued by the UK government warning of a potential terror attack in Uganda, the country's security forces have spoken out to reassure the public that they are fully prepared to handle any threats. Joint security spokesperson, Fred Enanga, stated that despite existing threats targeting soft targets, Uganda has remained generally peaceful for many years.
The UK government's advisory, which was issued last week, warned that potential attacks "could be indiscriminate or against foreign nationals or places frequented by foreign nationals." While similar terror alerts in the past have sometimes been followed by actual attacks, Enanga emphasized that the security forces are committed to thwarting any potential attacks on the country.
Addressing the specific challenges posed by the alert, Enanga mentioned that the general nature of the information provided makes it difficult to pinpoint the exact targets and identities of potential attackers. However, he assured the public that security agencies are using the shared information to determine and implement appropriate protective measures.
Enanga highlighted that the most significant threat to Uganda remains the ADF rebel group. Nevertheless, he noted that the group has faced significant setbacks in recent years, particularly since their attack on Kampala in November 2021.
Security forces have successfully dismantled ADF bases in the Democratic Republic of Congo and disrupted their domestic cells within Uganda, resulting in the elimination of several agents and collaborators.
While security agencies are diligently working to counter potential threats, Enanga stressed the importance of public vigilance. He urged every member of the public to be vigilant about their surroundings and report any suspicious behavior or individuals to the police. Emphasizing the value of even small pieces of information, he highlighted how public cooperation can significantly contribute to maintaining security.
In recent times, the collaboration between the UK and Ugandan authorities in sharing security information has been critical in safeguarding the nation against potential attacks. As security measures continue to be reinforced and public vigilance remains high, the joint security agencies are determined to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all Ugandans and visitors to the country.
