Police Heighten Security as 2026 FIFA World Cup Kicks Off

Kampala Metropolitan Police has issued security guidelines ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which kicks off on 11 June 2026 and is jointly hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
The tournament is expected to attract large crowds at entertainment venues and public viewing centres across Kampala and the surrounding areas.

According to ASP Luke Owoyesigyire, Deputy Public Relations Officer for Kampala Metropolitan Police, football fans are expected to gather in bars, hotels, restaurants, sports lounges, nightclubs, and other public viewing venues to watch live matches.

He urged venue proprietors, managers, and members of the public to remain vigilant and strictly observe safety and security measures throughout the tournament.
Owoyesigyire said the police have intensified security deployment and monitoring around major screening centres to ensure public safety, prevent crime, and respond promptly to any incidents that may arise.

“Security remains a shared responsibility,” he noted, encouraging members of the public to remain alert and report any suspicious persons, objects, or activities to the nearest police station or through the emergency contacts provided.
He further directed proprietors and managers of screening venues to work closely with area police leadership, enforce strict access control measures, prevent overcrowding, ensure emergency exits remain clear and accessible, maintain functional CCTV systems where available, and adequately brief staff on emergency preparedness and response procedures.
Venue operators were also reminded to maintain order within their premises, regulate alcohol consumption, prevent illegal activities, and ensure proper crowd management before, during, and after matches.

In addition, entertainment centres hosting public screenings have been urged to implement Ebola prevention and control measures in line with Ministry of Health guidelines. These include providing handwashing facilities or sanitizers at entry points, promoting regular hygiene practices among patrons and staff, maintaining environmental cleanliness, and remaining vigilant for any suspected symptoms for prompt reporting to health authorities.

Members of the public have also been encouraged to take personal responsibility for their safety by safeguarding their belongings, avoiding overcrowded spaces, not leaving drinks unattended, familiarising themselves with emergency exits, and following instructions issued by security personnel and venue management.
Owoyesigyire advised those who may not be able to attend public viewing centres to watch the matches from the safety and comfort of their homes.
FOR EMERGENCIES OR REPORTING SUSPICIOUS ACTIVITY, CONTACT:

• National Police Hotline: 999
• Police WhatsApp Incident Reporting Line: 0779 999 999
• Traffic Emergency Toll-Free Line: 0800 199 099
• Fire Emergency Toll-Free Line: 0800 121 222
  He called upon all stakeholders, including venue operators and football fans, to cooperate fully with security and health authorities to ensure a safe, secure, and peaceful 2026 FIFA World Cup viewing experience.