Police in North Kyoga Region have tightened security ahead of the FUFA Drum first-leg match between Lango and Bunyoro provinces scheduled for Saturday, September 26, at Dokolo Technical Institute.
The match will kick off at 4:00pm, with police deploying both overt and covert security personnel to ensure the event is held in a safe and peaceful environment.
North Kyoga regional police spokesperson Patrick Jimmy Okema said patrol teams would be deployed, while the CCTV Command Centre would be closely monitored to enhance communication and coordination with security commanders on the ground.
He said traffic and security teams would also be deployed to manage traffic along the highway to Kaberamaido, where the match venue is located.
Okema said traffic diversions would be in place on Friday and Saturday to minimise disruptions to other road users.
The match falls on the same day as the National Cleaning Exercise. Police said the cleaning exercise would run from 7:00am to 10:00am, urging residents and football fans to participate before preparations for the match begin.
Police also warned fans to remain vigilant against opportunistic criminals who could take advantage of the large gathering to steal phones, bags and other valuables.
Fans were advised to safeguard their belongings and promptly report suspicious activities to security personnel.
Okema further urged fans to consume alcohol responsibly, warning that excessive drinking could lead to disorderly conduct and compromise the safety of the event.
He called on fans, residents and other stakeholders to cooperate with security personnel and remain vigilant before, during and after the match.
Police said their priority was to maintain law and order while ensuring that fans enjoy the sporting encounter safely.
The Lango-Bunyoro encounter will be played at Dokolo Technical Institute, with Lango seeking an advantage in the first leg of the FUFA Drum fixture.