By Diana N. Kintu
The Uganda Police Force has expanded its operational footprint on Lake Victoria with the launch of a new Marine Police detachment at Kiwungu Landing Site in Kyamuswa County. The facility, officially commissioned on 5 December and presided over by the Commandant of the Marine Police, CP Kirungi Sulaiman, represents a significant step towards improving safety and law enforcement across Uganda’s largest waterbody.
The establishment of the Bukasa Detachment, as confirmed through an announcement on the Uganda Police Force’s official X (formerly Twitter) account, is intended to boost the Marine Unit’s capacity to protect lives and property on the lake. Police authorities indicated that the new post will greatly enhance surveillance, quick-response operations and general security across the waters, particularly in Kalangala, an island district where communities rely heavily on water transport for travel, trade and access to essential services.
The strategic selection of Kiwungu Landing Site reflects growing concerns about waterborne crime, unsafe travel practices and the increasing demand for security presence in remote island communities. Lake Victoria, which supports thousands of fishermen and transport operators, has in recent years witnessed a number of incidents including boat capsizing, smuggling activities and piracy-related threats. The Police say the expanded presence is vital to counter such risks.
Following the commissioning, CP Kirungi Sulaiman held an engagement with residents and business operators at Kitobo Landing Site in Bufumira Sub-county. His interactive session with stakeholders underscored the Police Force’s commitment not only to increasing physical infrastructure but also to strengthening relationships with the communities they serve.
During the meeting, CP Kirungi appealed for closer cooperation between the Marine Police and those who depend on the lake for their livelihoods, emphasising that community vigilance plays a central role in combating insecurity. He encouraged fishermen and transport operators to work hand in hand with the police by reporting suspicious activities and adhering to safety regulations.
A key point of the Commandant’s message was the compulsory use of life jackets on the lake. He reiterated that safety on water begins with individual responsibility and stressed that the loss of lives resulting from avoidable incidents must be urgently curtailed. According to him, widespread use of life jackets is one of the simplest yet most effective measures in reducing fatalities, especially during periods of rough weather.
The opening of the Bukasa Detachment forms part of a broader effort by the Uganda Police Force to modernise its marine operations, improve response times and build a safer environment for travellers and fishing communities. As Lake Victoria continues to serve as a vital economic and social lifeline for the region, authorities say enhancing safety on the water remains a national priority.
The new detachment is expected to play a central role in deterring crime, promoting lawful fishing practices and supporting the long-term stability of island communities. With continued cooperation between security agencies and the public, the Police believe the initiative will significantly reduce risks and strengthen overall security on Lake Victoria.