Katakwi, Uganda | Uganda has strengthened its counter-terrorism capabilities with the graduation of 459 police officers who completed a four-month intensive Basic Counter-Terrorism Induction and Combat Riders Course at the Police Training School in Ollilim, Katakwi District.
The pass-out ceremony for Intake 01/2025 was presided over by the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Abas Byakagaba.
The specialised training focused on counter-terrorism tactics, rapid response mechanisms, intelligence handling, and combat mobility aimed at equipping officers with the operational capability to counter emerging extremist threats within Uganda and across the region.
In his address, the IGP underscored the gravity of their new responsibilities, stating that the officers were now an essential part of Uganda’s frontline defence against terrorism.
He stressed that protecting the country was not a matter of choice but a national duty that required discipline, teamwork, and dedication.
He noted that national and regional stability depend on the commitment of security forces to ongoing training and operational readiness, urging the officers to approach their roles with professionalism and passion.
Byakagaba further pointed out that terrorism remained a dynamic threat requiring constant vigilance and adaptability from the police force.
He called on the graduates to uphold the highest ethical standards and remain committed to safeguarding citizens and national institutions.
The ceremony was attended by senior police leadership, including the Director of Human Resource Development AIGP Moses Kafeero, Director of Counter-Terrorism AIGP Wasswa David Ssengendo, and Director of Logistics and Engineering AIGP James Apora.
According to police authorities, the newly trained officers will be deployed across strategic locations to reinforce existing counter-terrorism units, conduct high-risk operations, and support intelligence-led interventions.
