By Robert Edwomu
Katakwi
Uganda Police Force has passed out 340 officers after undergoing a successful basic Counter Terrorism (CT) and Forensic induction course of 17 weeks at Olilim Police Training School (PTS) Katakwi district.
At least 270 CT officers under the Oil and Gas sector and 70 Scene of Crime Officers (SOCOs) under Forensic Services were on Friday 24th March, 2023 passed out by the Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIGP).
The pass out was Counter Terrorism intake 008/22-23 and 02/2023 Forensic induction course for SOCCOs.
Dhikusooka Awali, the Ag. Commandant PTS Olilim says the officers have been equipped with tactics to execute difficult operations both in Forensic and Oil and gas sectors respectively.
Despite successful pass out, Awali disclosed that some participants escaped from the training as others were sent back due to health complications and one died during the training.
Abbas Byakagaba, the Director Counter Terrorism (CT) says they intend to have all personnel under the counter terrorism directorate undergo basic CT training.
Frank Mwesigwa, the Senior Commissioner Oil and Gas Police division, asked the officers to observe the rules of the camp while guarding the sensitive oil and gas sector that will transform the country’s economy.
He tasks the guards to exhibit their duties vigilantly while observing human rights.
The acting Director Directorate of Forensic Services Assistant Commissioner of Police, Andrew Mubiru warned officers against use of drugs and substances to enhance duties but rather use the skills and set standards to execute duties.
He challenged them to effectively ensure proper care of the machinery they use in offices to improve on forensic services.
AIGP, Godfrey Golooba, Directer Human Resource Development rallied officers to observe discipline and perform all duties in an ethical manner in line with the police standard units.
Maj. Gen. Tumusiime Katsigazi, Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIGP) asked the officers to put the skill into use to ensure that Ugandans are free of terror.
Katsigazi warns officers to stay away from corrupt tendencies arguing that corruption has killed the credibility of the force and communities because of few individuals.
He says the government is committed to improving the welfare and accommodation of the officers in forces to restore public trust.
The trainee’s commended the Uganda Police Force for organizing a training that has enhanced their efficiency to execute their mandate.
Police Training School Olilim has trained a number of CT and SOCO officers currently serving in different parts and sectors of the country since 2014.
