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The Government of Uganda has fingerprinted over 73,000 firearms since 2018 as part of a comprehensive effort to curb gun violence, enhance public safety, and strengthen crime investigations using advanced forensic technology.

The Government of Uganda has achieved significant progress in curbing gun violence and enhancing public safety. Since 2018, a remarkable 92% of all legally issued firearms have been registered under the Uganda Police Force (UPF), Uganda Prisons Service (UPS), Private Security Organizations (PSOs), and private ownership (civilians).

Recognizing that security is a vital precondition for meaningful socioeconomic activity, President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni issued directives on June 20, 2018, during an address to Parliament, initiating a comprehensive exercise to track and identify firearms.

According to a recent report, 73,982 firearms were test-fired, and 50,377 guns were captured and registered as follows:

Uganda Police Force: 49,838 guns (93.3%)

Uganda Prisons Service: 2,957 guns (99%)

Private Security Organizations: 18,602 guns (100%)

Civilians: 2,585 guns (64.5%)

Fingerprinting Firearms

The fingerprinting process involves collecting and analyzing the unique markings left on cartridge cases and bullets fired from each firearm. According to the Minister of Internal Affairs, Maj. Gen. (Rtd) Kahinda Otafiire, these markings are distinctive and serve as forensic evidence to link firearms to crimes.

Presenting on December 3, 2024, at the Office of the President in Kampala, Maj. Gen. Otafiire highlighted the use of the Integrated Ballistics Information System (IBIS) in the fingerprinting initiative, which has led to the registration of 92.2% of all legally issued firearms. This system has delivered critical forensic intelligence, aiding investigations into 143 gun-related incidents involving 521 firearms.

Additionally, Gen. David Muhoozi, the State Minister of Internal Affairs, emphasized that fingerprinting firearms is a crucial step toward reducing gun violence, enhancing public safety, and strengthening the regulation of firearms. He noted that the Government has established a national firearms registry and a state-of-the-art forensic laboratory equipped to conduct advanced analyses, including ballistic imaging, DNA testing, and toxicology.

Crime Situation in Uganda

The Annual Crime Rate (ACR) reduced from 524 to 501 per 100,000 people between 2022 and 2023, alongside a 1.5% reduction in reported crime cases (231,653 in 2022 to 228,074 in 2023). This improvement is attributed to enhanced coordination among security agencies, improved detection and investigation methods, and strategic partnerships within the criminal justice system.

Despite these gains, challenges persist, particularly in regions like northeastern Uganda, where proximity to conflict-prone neighboring countries has led to rampant gun violence. In contrast, gun violence in central Uganda often involves registered firearms.

Anti-Stock Theft Unit (ASTU)

The Government continues to implement targeted initiatives to address cattle rustling and livestock theft. These include joint disarmament operations and the deployment of Armored Personnel Carriers (APCs), supported by the Police Air Wing for aerial patrols. In recent operations, 15,158 heads of cattle were recovered, 354 warriors neutralized, and 448 firearms seized.

Leveraging Technology for Public Safety

The National CCTV Project has significantly deterred crime and facilitated criminal investigations. To date, CCTV analysts have handled 1,700 cases, resulting in 316 convictions and 96 ongoing trials. Plans are underway to integrate private CCTV systems into the national grid to enhance coverage, alongside proposals to waive taxes on cameras for affordability.

Addressing Human Trafficking

The Ministry of Internal Affairs, in collaboration with stakeholders, has registered 5,063 victims of human trafficking since 2021, providing support to 1,226 victims through temporary shelter, medical care, and transportation. Efforts continue to strengthen enforcement of the Trafficking in Persons Act, ensuring effective monitoring and prosecution of offenders.

These comprehensive measures underscore the Government’s commitment to ensuring public safety, reducing crime, and fostering a secure environment for all Ugandans.