Police is doing miracles - IGP

KAMPALA. The Inspector General of Police, Gen Kale Kayihura, yesterday scoffed at police critics saying the Force should be praised because it does “miracles” for the country.

Gen Kayihura, who was unveiling a team of security experts from Algeria, said Ugandans should be proud of the police for providing security despite its fewer personnel compared to other countries.

The police have been criticised by government agencies, religious and cultural leaders and human rights activists for brutalising Ugandans. Gen Kayihura and other senior police officers are expected to appear at Makindye Magistrate’s Court today to plead to charges of torture for beating up supporters of Dr Kizza Besigye on July 12 and 13.

A delegation of senior police officers from Algeria is in Uganda to finalise plans of training the Uganda Police Force officers on managing transnational crimes.
Gen Kayihura said the Force will benefit from Algeria’s expertise on handling terrorism as
well as organised, cyber, and cross-border crimes.

Gen Kayihura said during his visit to Algeria late last month, he agreed with his counterpart on working together to steer up the intelligence and investigations capacity of the UPF.
“Algeria has a well-developed police institution which can handle all security threats. I know their visit is not a waste but we shall benefit from their expertise,” Gen Kayihura said.

He said the partnership will increase UPF’s technical knowledge on protecting very important persons (VIPs), detecting and fighting cyber-crimes and tactical response to abrupt security threats.

Mr Kayihura also applauded former Algerian president Ahmed Ben Bella for his contribution towards the liberation of African continent.

“Former president and other great pan Africans like Nkrumah (former Ghanian president) did great work for the sovereignty of Africa as a continent. This is why we always cherish them,” said Gen Kayihura.

Mr Nour Guermat, the head of the delegation, said his country was ready to support Uganda police using its necessary resources and expertise. “We are going to help Uganda police in fighting on ground and air crime using helicopters and other security measures,” Mr Guermat said.

jkato@ug.nationmedia.com