The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), through its Military Police Brigade, has announced the commencement of a joint traffic-enforcement operation targeting vehicles that violate registration, licensing and number-plate regulations.

The operation, dubbed Operation Tekeleza Sheria, is being conducted in coordination with the Uganda Traffic Police and will cover the Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area as well as other parts of the country, according to a public notice issued by the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs (MODVA).

The notice states that the operation will focus on motor vehicles that do not have number plates, are not properly registered or lack the required licences.

Authorities will also target vehicles whose number plates have been covered or concealed. The notice specifically points out that some of the vehicles involved may belong to members of the security forces and government ministries, departments and agencies.

Drivers found violating the relevant traffic regulations face arrest and prosecution, according to the announcement.

The UPDF has also warned members of the security services that they will not be exempt from the enforcement exercise. Those found breaching traffic rules, including driving without valid driving permits or licences, may also be arrested.

In a separate aspect of the operation, the Military Police will target civilian-registered vehicles found carrying military stores or other military-related items.

The notice identifies military jackets as an example of the items that may attract enforcement action. It states that the presence of such items on a driver's seat or elsewhere in a civilian vehicle will not prevent the vehicle from being impounded.

According to the announcement, drivers or owners of vehicles found with military stores or other military paraphernalia may be arrested and subjected to court-martial proceedings under the UPDF Act 2025, as amended.

The notice does not provide a list of all items classified as military paraphernalia, nor does it explain whether particular circumstances, such as authorised possession or transport, may affect enforcement decisions.

The UPDF Military Police Brigade and Uganda Traffic Police have been instructed to proceed with the operation immediately. The exercise will continue until further notice, the public statement says.

The defence authorities have appealed to members of the public to cooperate with the enforcement teams and support efforts to ensure compliance with traffic regulations.

The announcement was signed by Colonel Chris Magezi, Acting Director of Defence Public Information at MODVA/UPDF.

Motorists are advised to ensure that their vehicles have the required registration documents, valid number plates and appropriate licensing before travelling, while members of security services are also expected to comply with applicable traffic laws.