Security forces reveal that covert teams have been deployed by the Directorate of Crime Intelligence (DCI) to actively identify and apprehend individuals found wearing or selling clothing resembling military uniforms or security agency attire.
Brig Gen Chris Damulira, who heads the DCI, highlighted the spate of mobile money robberies and other criminal acts committed by individuals wearing attire resembling military uniforms, saying there is need for action to be taken.
In an operation known as “No More Camouflage,” both police and the military are calling on the public to surrender any such items to the relevant authorities to avoid facing legal consequences. Civilians have also been warned to refrain from wearing or selling unauthorized military-like attire.
The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) has issued a stern warning against civilians wearing unauthorized military attire within the Kampala metropolitan area.
Col Deo Akiiki, the Deputy Spokesperson of UPDF, emphasized that such actions are against the law and undermine the integrity of the armed forces. Akiiki says they are committed to enforcing the law and ensuring that military uniforms remain the exclusive domain of authorized personnel.
Kampala Metropolitan Police Spokesperson, Patrick Onyango, says that voluntary compliance by civilians will avoid potential arrests.
“If you’re still wearing army-like uniforms, we want to warn you that the operation has resumed and if you are found you will be arrested and charged. We urge whoever has them to stop wearing them. Take them to the nearby police station,” Onyango said.
The Uganda People’s Defence Forces Act mandates that civilians refrain from wearing items that could be misconstrued as military in nature. Prohibited attire includes clothing with camouflage patterns, khaki, plain army green, navy blue, and red garments that may resemble military uniforms.
This crackdown comes amidst an increase in criminal activities involving suspects donning military-like garments.