Police tightens guidelines for event organizers and promoters

Police have issued new guidelines for securing gatherings of concerts and performances. This follows the tragic incident which occurred during New Year’s Eve at Freedom City in Makindye division Kampala.

During the weekly press briefing at police headquarters in Naguru, Fred Enanga, the Police Spokesperson, noted that these guidelines are aimed at reducing the risks of such similar incidents from happening whenever there are public entertainment shows.

He said these guidelines have been shared to all territorial commanders and District Police Commanders at all levels.

“All organizers will be required to first notify the office of the Inspector General of Police for clearance, indicating clearly where the concert will take place and if they have reached an agreement with the owners of the venue. This has to be done prior to the event,” he noted.

Additionally, promoters have been asked to provide full details of all artists and musicians, expected to perform at concerts including their residential addresses, and proof of private security guards and stewards.

“Music promoters will also be required to show the office of the IGP how they plan to put in place and must have clear and elaborate access control measures including walk-through metal detectors, K9 and scanners,” he explained.

For any event that’s taking place, police said the number of people attending must be indicated, to ascertain whether they match the designated place and the number of people it holds.