The DIGP, Maj. Gen. Tumusiime Katsigazi, has on the behalf of the entire police fraternity, extended best wishes to all Muslims and well-swishers, in Uganda and across the globe. As you are all aware, Ramadan is the holiest month in the Islamic calendar and a time of fasting, self-restraint, reflection, generosity, family and community. And as always, all Muslims come together to fast, pray and honor the values at the heart of Islam of Peace, love, gratitude, tolerance, forgiveness and compassion. It is also a period, where Muslims give back to the community through Zakat. The DIGP has also called upon all territorial commanders to dedicate time and join their Muslim colleagues in fasting, to enable them experience the importance of Ramadan to our Muslim colleagues and communities.
Last year, 2023, the police worked very well with all Muslims leaders and had a successful and incident free, month of Ramadan. And even though, there are no specific threats during this period, we urge everyone, to remain vigilant. The following are some safety precautions that can help promote safety and security, during the Islamic Holy Month of Ramadan.
- All territorial commanders are encouraged to work with all Muslim leaders in their respective jurisdictions to address and respond to all concerns of crime and safety, threats and vulnerabilities against Muslims, including patrolling all mosques and worship areas during the Holy month of Ramadan.
- We encourage all Muslim institutions like Mosques, Islamic centres and schools to form security committees that will work with the police and sister security agencies in addressing all security concerns.
- Stay informed. Monitor the media for the latest security updates.
- Be aware of your surroundings and report any suspicious persons or objects to the nearest security. Take extra caution while going for early morning prayers and from late evening prayers.
- For Juma prayers, all Mosques and Islamic centers, must have extra security ready at the doors, checking who is entering and going out.
- Ensure the parking areas are closely guarded and watch out for any suspicious vehicles.
- Avoid crowds. Large gatherings can quickly become dangerous.
- Avoid travelling alone especially in isolated areas after dark. Tell a friend or neighbor when you are going and when you intend to return.
- Travel in groups. Safety is in numbers.
- 10. Vary your routes and times of travel. Being less predictable makes your more difficult to target.
11.During your movements, find exits and have a plan to escape or safe havens along your route or trip e.g shops, restaurants, fuel stations and security stations.
12.Always carry a charged cell phone. Also ensure your emergency numbers and family contracts are programmed.
13.Turn off location services on your smart cell phone or other devices. Criminals can use those features to establish your location.
14.Do not advertise, post or broadcast the location where you are going. Only tell people after you have left that place.
15.Record all incidents of harassment, threatening phone calls or messages, and report to the police. Use your telephone’s trace features to try to get the telephone number of the caller.
16.Take videos of any crime concerns, without getting too close.
18.Build an emergency contact list of all security personnel, Imams and Muslim Activists, in case of an incident that threatens the community.
To managers at places of work;
19.All employers are encouraged to support Muslim employees by wishing them a happy, blessed and successful Ramadan.
20.They should make suitable arrangements for first aid or medical assistance.
21.Should know that fasting can introduce health and safety risks at the work place including dizziness and fatigue
22.Learn more about Ramadan, and provide special consideration like time and space for them to break the fast and perform prayers.
23.They should know that the first few days of Ramadan can be difficult for Muslims. They need to help them adjust while allocating them tasks.
To all Muslim individuals/homes
24.Avoid lone movements very early for prayers and late evenings.
25.Make sure all doors, windows have secure locks in them. And keep doors locked at all times. If you have an alarm system double check to see if they are working properly.
26.Practice fire drills and safety precautions.
27.Keep watch over children and avoid sending them outside to play by themselves.
28.Maintain lone profiles. Remain calm and patient if verbally harassed, avoid provocative arguments and confrontation, by walking away.
29.During the weekend, remain extra careful and avoid persons under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
30.Individuals are advised to see a Doctor before fasting.
31.Choose diet wisely and modify their eating habits.
32.Take advantage of nutritious foods, to sustain energy levels throughout the day.
33.Take regular breaks
34.Courtesy and understanding
35.Arrange separate facilities from canteens
36.Avoid offering food and drinks to those fasting
37.Avoid eating in the presence of fasting colleagues.
38.Dress decently while visiting Muslim friends.
Once again let us all welcome the holy month of Ramadan and translate the common values and principles of peace, love and compassion to each other.
Happy and Prosperous Holy Month of Ramadan.
SCP Enanga Fred
Police Spokesperson
11th March 20224
