Uganda Police Boost Marine Security with New Speed Boats

[Da Dona]

The Uganda Police Force has strengthened its Marine Unit with the acquisition of nine new speed boats aimed at improving security, rescue operations and emergency response on the country's water bodies.

The boats were commissioned on Thursday by Inspector General of Police Abas Byakagaba at the Police Marine Base in Kigo on the shores of Lake Victoria.

Byakagaba said Uganda's lakes and rivers are vital to the country's economy, supporting sectors such as agriculture, trade, transport, tourism, energy and fishing, but remain vulnerable to crime and accidents. He said the new boats will strengthen maritime security while improving the force's emergency response capabilities.

The IGP also urged officers to strictly enforce safety regulations, especially against overloading on waterways, saying preventing avoidable tragedies requires strict enforcement and greater respect for human life. He warned against misuse and poor maintenance of the boats, stressing that taxpayers expect accountability and effective service delivery.

Police Operations Director AIGP Frank Mwesigwa revealed that although nine boats have been procured, four have already been delivered, while the remaining five are expected in August.

The first batch will be deployed to Butyaba, Ntoroko, Lolwe Island and Namayingo District to enhance policing, including support for oil and gas activities.

Marine Police Commandant Commissioner Suleiman Kirungi described the vessels as a major boost to marine operations, saying they are designed for both security and rescue missions. The boats are equipped with gun mounts, shock-absorbing suspension systems and enough space to accommodate rescued persons, enabling faster response to accidents, drowning incidents and other emergencies, particularly in high-risk areas such as Lake Albert.

Nile post UG​