The Uganda Police Spokesperson ACP Kituuma Rusoke has revealed that Fireworks shall only be discharged by a licensed blaster representing an approved applicant as the country ushers in the New Year this evening.
According to Kituuma, venues like hotels, entertainment centres and places of worship among others are supposed to ensure following the recently released security guidelines to ensure proper security and public safety during the display.
The fireworks display must be publicly advertised in both electronic and print media particularly on local FM radio stations and newspapers prior to the event.
Kituuma noted that the duration of any fireworks display shall not exceed five minutes from the time of the first blast.
“Counter Terrorism (CT) Police officers shall escort the fireworks materials and supervise the display, working jointly with the respective District Police Commanders (DPCs) to ensure proper security and public safety during the display” he said.
Kituuma noted that CT Police officers and DPCs have to conduct prior inspection of all venues to confirm their suitability for fireworks displays.
“Area DPCs reserve the authority to stop any fireworks display that fails to comply with these guidelines. Any unused fireworks materials is handled only by a person holding a valid explosives blaster’s license” he said.
The Police PRO noted that non-compliance with the guidelines may result in immediate termination of the display either before or during the event and may attract other appropriate actions as necessary.
Kituuma further warned members of the public to desist from burning tires while celebrating the New Year.
“We also caution all firearm holders against firing shots into the air as a way of celebrating, as this poses serious risks to public safety” he said.
The Police has since released a list of venues that have been granted permission to blast fireworks tonight as displayed below….
