Police in the Kampala Metropolitan area have detained a woman following a disturbing viral video in which she was seen assaulting a traffic officer who had stopped her for violating road safety guidelines.
The suspect, identified as Mercy Timbitwire Bashisha, was driving a Toyota Land Cruiser (registration number UBM 439T) and is alleged to have caused an accident along Jinja Road.
According to a police statement, the incident occurred on October 18, 2024, around 11:55 AM. Officers from Jinja Road Police Station attempted to stop Bashisha after she failed to adhere to traffic regulations. Despite their signals, she reportedly continued driving while using her phone.
The situation escalated when the officer managed to catch up with Bashisha at the Lugogo Traffic Lights. After parking her vehicle at the Uganda Manufacturers Association, she was approached by the officer, who requested her driving permit. Instead of complying, Bashisha allegedly resorted to intimidation and subsequently assaulted the officer.
In a further act of defiance, she is accused of confiscating the officer’s EPS gadget and two mobile phones. The police have confirmed that Bashisha is currently in custody as they conduct a thorough investigation into the incident.
Police Spokesperson Rusoke Kituuma emphasized the seriousness of the matter, stating, “She is currently under detention as investigations are being conducted.” The incident has sparked public outrage and raised concerns about the treatment of traffic officers in the line of duty.
