Kampala Metropolitan Police have issued a directive limiting Ugandan artistes to a maximum of five companions when traveling to and from performance venues.
This measure follows violent altercations last week between gangs affiliated with musicians Pius Mayanja, alias Pallaso, and Patrick Mulwana, known as Alien Skin.
“Kampala Metropolitan Police and the joint security team do not want to see any artiste moving with a group of youths who are hooligans or whose intentions are to cause havoc,” Police spokesperson Patrick Onyango announced on Monday. “If police catches you with more than five people, they will be screened, and the excess will be detained.”
The allowed entourage is restricted to essential personnel: the artiste’s manager, DJ, secretary, treasurer, and one security individual.
The directive comes days after event organizers and promoters imposed a 90-day ban on artistes with links to violent gangs. This period, they said, would enable security agencies to dismantle such groups.
“Music should unite, regardless of political affiliations, and not be used to destroy property, homes, or vehicles, or steal from people,” said Balaam Barugahara, Minister of State for Youth and Children Affairs.
Barugahara emphasized the government’s position against criminal activities, noting that even ministers implicated in crimes have faced legal consequences. “The president cannot hire Alien Skin or Pallaso to terrorize revelers. It is untrue that the government is involved in such activities,” he stated.
Last week, police launched an investigation into a violent raid at Alien Skin’s residence in Makindye Division, Kampala, which resulted in property damage, vandalized cars, and injuries to some gang members.
Similarly Police in North Kyoga Police have confirmed the arrest of Mr. Awio Isaac Jackson aka Awio Scrap Dealer, following a violent incident involving local artist Lil Square. The altercation, which reportedly occurred on January 3, 2024, included an assault on Lil Square and the malicious damage of his vehicle, registration number UAU 045Q.
Authorities disclosed that the arrest of Awio Scrap and his said hired bouncers was part of an ongoing investigation led by the District Police Command of Lira City Central Police Station (CPS).
Initial efforts to apprehend the suspect at Glass Lounge proved challenging as Awio Scrap attempted to evade capture. However, a renewed operation late last night successfully placed Mr. Awio and other suspects in custody at Lira Central Police Station.
The police spoke person for North Kyoga, SP Jimmy Patrick Okema strongly condemned the acts of violence, emphasizing the importance of resolving disputes through legal and peaceful means., stating, “This is a warning to anyone attempting to take the law into their own hands…”
Members of the public have been urged to remain calm as police work to ensure justice for all parties involved.
ENDS
