Uganda Police Refutes Claims of Involvement in Kenyan Protests

The Uganda Police Force has firmly denied involvement in the recent protests in Nakuru, Kenya.

The controversy arose when a video showed a Uganda Police fire truck amidst protesters, leading to false claims about the police's participation in the unrest.

"We would like to refute the false and malicious propaganda surrounding the video footage of our driver, who was captured amidst protesters in Nakuru while transporting a Uganda Police fire truck, under registration number UP 9596, from Kenya to Uganda on June 21, 2024," stated Uganda Police spokesperson Fred Enanga. "

The propagandists and their co-conspirators falsified their stories, claiming the Uganda Police was involved in the recent protests in Kenya, which is false and misleading."

According to Enanga, the fire truck, belonging to the Masaka Central Police Station Fire and Rescue Department, had developed a mechanical problem in April 2024.

It was sent to Nairobi, Kenya, by Isuzu Uganda for further repairs. On June 21, 2024, as the truck was being driven back to Uganda, the driver encountered several protesters in Nakuru who recorded the vehicle during transit."The facts gathered indicate that the fire truck driver eventually proceeded and entered Uganda on the same day.

It was captured on CCTV at Busitema at 11:49:25 am, en route to Masaka via Kampala," Enanga detailed

.Enanga emphasized that the presence of the truck in the video was purely coincidental and unrelated to the protests. "Our driver was simply passing through Nakuru on his way back to Uganda with the repaired fire truck. The vehicle had no involvement in the protests," he said.The situation highlights the potential for misinformation in an age where video footage can be easily misinterpreted and spread rapidly across social media.

Enanga called for the public to be cautious about the information they consume and share. "We urge everyone to verify facts before believing or spreading information, especially on social media where falsehoods can quickly gain traction," he advised.

The incident also underscores the ongoing cooperation between Uganda and Kenya, particularly in areas such as vehicle repair and maintenance. Isuzu Uganda, responsible for the fire truck's repairs, ensured the vehicle was returned safely and in working condition.

Masaka Central Police Station is now preparing to reintegrate the fire truck into its fleet.

"We are pleased to have the truck back in service, ready to assist in fire and rescue operations in Masaka and surrounding areas," commented a Masaka CPS spokesperson.

This episode serves as a reminder of the importance of clear communication and fact-checking in preventing the spread of false information.

The Uganda Police Force remains committed to transparency and accountability, working to maintain public trust and ensure accurate dissemination of information.

"We remain focused on our mission to serve and protect the people of Uganda, undeterred by false accusations and misleading narratives," Enanga concluded.