President Yoweri Museveni has directed the Inspector General of Police – IGP Martin Ochola, to reinstate all roadblocks and checkpoints that had been removed barely two months ago.
Roadblocks and checkpoints were removed after President Museveni directed Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja to inform commanders of relevant security agencies that they had outlived their usefulness as were responsible for causing delays in the transportation of goods and causing unnecessary traffic congestion.
Ochola responded by directing district, division, station and unit commanders to swiftly remove the checkpoints and roadblocks in their respective jurisdictions. Police removed all the checkpoints as directed.
However, Museveni has indicated that ever since roadblocks were moved, not only have incidents of cattle theft and transportation of contraband have become the order of the night, but incidents of reckless driving have also increased on roads, thus leading to numerous crashes.
In order to reduce crime and restore sanity on the roads ahead of Christmas and New Year’s festivities, Museveni has directed Ochola to ensure checkpoints are erected in strategic areas.
Senior Commissioner of Police Fred Enanga confirmed that IGP Ochola has since directed territorial commanders to restore the checkpoints.
However, Ochola has warned any of police personnel who will turn the checkpoints into a money-making opportunity that they will be prosecuted. A police officer of a senior rank compared to those manning the roadblocks will be attached purposely to supervise their conduct.
Enanga said the checkpoints that are going to be reinstated will be backed up by motorized patrols to increase security for the traffic officers manning them.
It should be remembered that some police officers especially in Luweero district were attacked at checkpoints. Constable Busingye died while Constable Twinamatsiko was injured.