The Uganda Police Force calls upon all Private Security Organisations (PSOs) and their personnel to remain vigilant and uphold the required standards in the execution of their duties.
PSOs are entrusted with the protection of lives and property, and some personnel are authorised to handle firearms. Their operations must, therefore, be conducted with discipline, proper supervision and strict accountability, in accordance with the Police (Control of Private Security Organisations) Regulations, 2013.
From January 2026 to date, security agencies operating under the inter-agency framework have recovered 23 firearms. This underscores the need for PSOs and their personnel to strictly adhere to established security standards.
1. Deployment
PSOs must deploy only trained and authorised guards and provide the appropriate number of personnel and firearms based on the security requirements of each assignment.
Clients are equally urged not to insist on deploying fewer guards simply to reduce costs where doing so compromises security.
For instance, a firearm recovered in Buikwe following the arrest of suspected kidnappers on 17 September 2026 had reportedly been stolen from a security guard at a produce store in Kimombasa Cell, Bugiri Municipality. The incident highlights the risks associated with deploying a lone armed guard at assignments that require at least two guards.
2. Movement of Armed Guards
Armed guards should travel to and from their duty stations in company vehicles or as part of organised groups. They should not move alone where such movement contravenes established deployment and security requirements.
3. Parking and Vehicle Security
Members of the public are advised to use authorised and secure overnight parking arrangements. They should not make informal payments to individual guards to watch over vehicles, as this may compromise established security procedures and accountability.
4. Vigilance
Security personnel must remain vigilant at all times. Guards should not accept food, drinks or other items from unauthorised persons while on duty and should promptly report any suspicious approaches or activities to their supervisors or the police.
5. Compliance with Security Standards
PSOs are reminded to reject contracts or assignments that compromise established security standards. The Uganda Police Force will continue to inspect deployments and take lawful action against PSOs, guards or other persons found violating the applicable regulations and security requirements.
6. Prompt Reporting of Incidents
All cases involving the loss, theft or misuse of firearms, as well as unsafe or non-compliant deployments, must be reported promptly to the nearest police station.
The Uganda Police Force further calls upon PSOs, their personnel, clients and members of the public to work together to strengthen security, prevent the loss or misuse of firearms, and ensure that private security operations are conducted in accordance with the law and established standards.
