news 28 August 2026 The Observer (Uganda)
Namayingo Police Nab 21 for Daytime Drinking Spree
Authorities in Namayingo district have apprehended 21 individuals, including 13 men and 8 women, for allegedly consuming alcohol in bars during regular working hours. This action follows a directive from Local Government minister Balaam Barugahara aimed at curbing alcohol consumption during productive times. Source: https://observer.ug/news/balaam-bites-21-arrested-in-namayingo-for-drinking-in-bars-during-working-hours
Police in Namayingo district have arrested 21 people for allegedly violating new guidelines concerning bar operating hours. The arrests were made during an operation targeting establishments found to be open and serving patrons during what are considered working hours.
The suspects, a mix of 13 men and 8 women, were reportedly found drinking in bars despite directives from Local Government minister Balaam Barugahara. These guidelines stipulate that bars should not open before 3 PM on weekdays, encouraging citizens to focus on work and economic activities during the day.
Beyond drinking during prohibited hours, some of the arrested individuals are also accused of playing loud music, which allegedly disturbed nearby communities. The detainees are currently held at Namayingo Central Police Station awaiting legal proceedings.
Minister Barugahara has emphasized that the directive aims to foster productive livelihoods by discouraging the waste of working hours on alcohol consumption. He has instructed local government leaders and the police to ensure strict enforcement of these regulations to promote discipline and order within communities.
The operation in Namayingo was preceded by intelligence gathering and complaints from residents about bars operating excessively. Police identified notorious “black spots” within Namayingo Town Council before carrying out the arrests. While some of the arrested claimed to be night-shift workers seeking relaxation, police noted that most could not substantiate their claims.
Namayingo Resident District Commissioner, Emmy Mitala, stated that similar crackdowns will be extended to other sub-counties, particularly areas where young people are reportedly neglecting productive work in favor of bars. He highlighted concerns about casual laborers, especially in the mining sector, who allegedly prioritize drinking over their jobs, risking alcohol dependence and job loss due to safety regulations.
This enforcement action in Namayingo marks one of the initial reported responses to the minister’s directive, which has sparked discussions about regulating drinking times and the extent of local authorities’ enforcement powers.
Source: The Observer (Uganda)