Uganda raises security levels on Christmas day to prevent terror attacks

KAMPALA, Dec. 25 (Xinhua) -- Ugandan security agencies on Monday beefed up security control and raised security levels around churches and entertainment areas on Christmas Day in efforts to prevent possible terror attacks in the East African country.

Emilian Kayima, Ugandan police spokesperson, told Xinhua that security has been beefed up around worship places, entertainment areas and venues planned to hold music concerts on Christmas Day in the capital city of Kampala and major towns.

The security measures are taken in awake of Al-Shabaab, a Somalian militant group which has issued several warnings to launch attacks in Uganda.

"We are alert and prepared. We have enhanced access control measure in places of worships and entertainment," said Kayima, appealing the public to be more vigilant during the festive season.

"We assure the public of safety over the festive season. We are ready and fully equipped to handle any issue that may come up," he said.

He said the police and military have also deployed foot and motorized personnel in the streets and busy locations.

The militant group in 2010 launched twin bomb attacks on football fans watching a world cup final in the capital, Kampala, killing about 80 people and injuring several others. Enditem