SCP Fred Enanga, the Police Spokesperson, on behalf of Uganda Police has issued safety and security tips to be followed at the 29th Uganda International Trade Fair (UGITF) which will take place from October 3-10, 2023, at UMA Show Grounds, under the theme Driving Manufacturing and Trade Efficiency through Digital Transformation and Innovation.
Enanga informed the organizers and the public that despite a few existing threats in the country, there are no specific threats directed towards the event.
He guaranteed the public of safety and security, adding that, the security agencies have mobilized sufficient manpower, both overt and covert, logistical resources, to counter all forms of threats, vulnerabilities and eventualities towards the event.
“Our security detail will maintain a heightened presence throughout the event,” Enanga noted.
He said that, the Police have profiled the surrounding areas and mapped out routes for patrols, on foot, motorcycles, vehicles as well as aerial surveillance using UAVs.
According to the police, a command centre with CCTV that will monitor movements of persons and motor vehicles has also been opened up.
Enanga shared safety tips that should be followed by exhibitors and attendees to help guard against criminals who may wish to take advantage of the popular Trade Fair, among which include;
Customers and Visitors should, carry a national ID or other relevant identification documents at all times, set their goals and make a comprehensive list of what one needs.
Children or elderly persons should not be let to stray away. Mobile phones, Laptops should not be left in the open while valuables like wallets and ladies purses should be kept out of sight.
Customers and visitors should avoid lifts from strangers, unsafe boda-bodas and cabs or taxis.
Be careful when in the bathrooms. Check them out, Cashless transactions are encouraged, Move in twos or groups because safety is in numbers.
Observe the parking area for any strange behavior or activity and do not wait to place valuables in the trunk after parking, to avoid alerting criminals, park the car with the front or nose, facing out.
Use social media for promoting your brand but avoid details like amounts.
In case of serious medical emergencies, standby medical teams from the Police, UPDF, Ministry of Health, and organizers are in place to attend to any health concerns.
Enanga urged that, in case of theft or other victimization, it should be reported to police, adding that, if a suspect or any suspicious activity is identified, security or the organizers should be alerted.
He confirmed that, police has installed walk-through metal detectors, and will conduct visual inspections of bags and other items, while urged security to man all entrances and also use K9 security sweeps.
