The Uganda Police Force has issued a strong warning to serving police officers against recording and sharing social media videos while dressed in police uniform, describing the practice as unlawful and unprofessional.

Police spokesperson ACP Kituma Rusoke said officers are allowed to have personal social media accounts, but their use must follow professional standards, especially when they are wearing the official uniform of the force.

Rusoke said the police leadership has noticed a growing trend where some officers record themselves participating in dance and music challenges while dressed in uniform and later share the videos online.

He warned that such behaviour can affect the reputation of the Uganda Police Force and reduce public confidence in the professionalism of officers.

“A social media account, one can have it in person, but the moment you want to communicate, you cannot use it. It’s very unlawful for a serving officer to post a video in our uniform doing dance and music challenges,” Rusoke said.

According to the police spokesperson, officers involved in such activities are acting against the expected conduct of members of the force and could face disciplinary action.

He said some of the videos being circulated contain content that does not match the image and values associated with the police institution.

“Those doing it are doing it illegally and should be charged. We have been seeing them. Very, very compromising songs. It’s very, very unprofessional,” Rusoke stated.

Rusoke explained that police officers who have musical talents have an official platform where they can perform without compromising their professional image.

He pointed out that the Uganda Police Band provides opportunities for officers interested in music and performance.

“The Police Band even has a Jazz group. They have officers who particularly do performances. Those who want to sing should join the Police Band,” he said.

He added that the institution supports talent among officers but insists that such talents should be expressed through approved channels.

The police spokesperson also addressed officers who participate in online challenges while not wearing uniform, saying each case should be judged depending on the context and the nature of the content.

However, he cautioned senior police officers to be more careful because their positions require a higher level of responsibility.

Rusoke said officers holding senior positions should avoid posting content that could undermine the seriousness associated with their roles.

He gave an example of a District Police Commander (DPC), saying it may appear inappropriate for such an officer to post entertainment videos online while being expected to lead important security meetings.

“It might not look nice if a DPC posted a video dancing to a challenge when they have to chair meetings that seek serious matters,” he said.

The warning comes as social media platforms continue to become a major avenue for public interaction, entertainment and communication among people from different professions.

The police leadership says officers must understand that the uniform represents authority, discipline and public trust.

Because of this, officers wearing police uniform are expected to maintain behaviour that protects the reputation of the institution both physically and online.

The directive is expected to guide police officers on responsible use of social media while maintaining professionalism.

The Uganda Police Force has continued to encourage officers to embrace modern communication platforms but within the limits of their professional obligations.

The warning also serves as a reminder that joining a security institution comes with responsibilities that extend beyond official working hours.

Officers interested in entertainment and performance have been encouraged to use official platforms such as the Police Band rather than combining social media trends with police uniform.

The police leadership says maintaining discipline and professionalism remains important in ensuring public confidence in the force.