Kigezi Residents warned against displaying fireworks tonight

Ugandans in the areas of Kigezi Region have been urged to remain in their homes tonight while welcoming the New Year 2021.

Unlike in the past where people gathered in large numbers to enjoy display of fireworks, things are different this time round, due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Elly Maate the Kigezi Regional police spokesperson says that as per the Directive from the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance, there will be No display of fireworks. “I repeat NO display of fireworks in the Region” he warned.

He therefore warned all proprietors of public places and intending organizers against displaying fireworks due to the potential of attracting crowds amidst the increased threats of coronavirus.

Adding that the timing of the displays at midnight highly conflicts with the curfew restrictions that are still in place.

“Therefore, let us all be mindful of coronavirus, by ushering in the New Year, 2021, in very safe and socially distanced ways, to help protect our families, friends and all those who are dear to us. We have deployed our personnel from all security agencies to monitor all places within the region, to ensure strict compliance” he noted.

Maate says the police remain committed to delivering a peaceful transition into the New Year and that their operations to counter all forms of criminality and acts of impunity are still ongoing, with a view of identifying and apprehending all perpetrators of crime.