The Inspector General of Police - IGP Martin Ochola has directed territorial commanders to restore roadblocks and checkpoints which had been removed barely two months ago.
His directive comes after President Yoweri Museveni ordered the IGP to reinstate all roadblocks and checkpoints, claiming that thieves are taking advantage of their absence to rob Ugandans of their properties.
They were earlier removed after the President directed Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja to inform commanders of relevant security agencies that they had outlived their usefulness and were responsible for causing delays in the transportation of goods and causing unnecessary traffic congestion.
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.
According to Senior Commissioner of Police Fred Enanga, IGP Ochola has warned police personnel who will turn the checkpoints into a money-making opportunity that they will be prosecuted. Adding that a police officer of a senior rank compared to those manning the roadblocks will be attached purposely to supervise their conduct.
He noted that the checkpoints which are going to be reinstated will be backed up by motorized patrols to increase security for the traffic officers manning them.
