The police leadership through Deputy Inspector General of Police, James Ochaya, has applauded Private Security Organisations (PSOs) for contributing to country’s stability. Ochaya, who was represented by the Director of Interpol Assistant Inspector General of Police -AIGP Joseph Obwana, at PSO’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) said security would have been challenging without the support of private security providers.
According to Ochaya’s statement read by AIGP Obwana, the police recognises the important roles that private security organisations play in providing law and order, peace and security in the country. The two police gurus said PSO’s duties are in conformity with the constitutional mandate of the Uganda Police Force as enshrined in the constitution of protecting lives and property, preserve law and order, prevent and deter crimes and cooperating with the civilian authority and other security organs established in the constitution and the population.
On his part, AIGP Obwana said the Department of Private Security and Fire Arms will continue to ensure that the private security organisations comply with the regulations”. “The number of operating companies in the country has grain over the years and your initiative to mobilise into the association is very commendable especially in addressing issues that affect your daily operations” AIGP Obwana said.
“The Uganda Police Force will ensure that it works with the association to promote effective performance of the Private security organisations in the country. We as Uganda Police Force are cognizant of the challenges and shortcomings that some of the companies face, we recognize that the environment for your operation in the country is improving and evidenced by increased or growing demand for your services as the economy improves” AIGP Obwana said.
Grace Matsiko, was re-elected unopposed as the chairman for the 426 strong private security companies’ members umbrella body, the Uganda Private Security Association (TUPSA) for his outstanding performance in the last six years.
Sam Wairagala, TUPSA’s Executive Secretary, appealed to government to address multiple taxation regimes to the private security sector yet it compliments national security as well as creating jobs for over 100,000 personnel, with majority being youths.