The Uganda Police has announced a ban on musicians' gangs and large entourages at music shows and events.
The directive was issued by Kampala Metropolitan Police spokesperson Patrick Onyango during a press conference held in Naguru, Kampala, on Monday morning.
Police believe that limiting the number of people accompanying artists to shows will help reduce violence among musicians and their supporters.
According to Onyango, the five permitted individuals must include the artist’s DJ, manager, secretary, treasurer, and one person for security.
“As Kampala Metropolitan and the joint security team, we do not want to see any artist moving with a group of hooligans causing havoc. Musicians will now be allowed to move with only a selected team of five people,” Onyango stated.
“Anyone beyond the five will be arrested, and the artist will be required to sort out who is authorized,” he emphasized.
The ban comes days after violent clashes between Alien Skin's and Pallaso's groups at the Empele Festival on the 1st of this month at Buloba Forest Park. The incident resulted in property damage and injuries to attendees.
The conflict escalated further when Pallaso allegedly retaliated on Thursday morning by attacking Alien Skin's base, destroying vehicles and other property.
Police aim to restore peace and ensure a safe environment for revelers to enjoy events. However, the directive comes as tensions remain high between the two groups, with continued threats of violence.
