By Robert Segawa
The Uganda Police Force has issued a strong warning to the public to desist from obstructing officers while executing their official duties as mandated by law. This follows a rising trend of attacks on police officers, some of which have resulted in serious injuries and even loss of life.
One such incident occurred in Wayita Village, Busakira Sub-county, Mayuge District, where two officers were attacked while attempting to arrest a suspected robber identified as Alex Chuha. During the arrest, Chuha and his brother reportedly picked up pangas and assaulted the officers. In the ensuing struggle, Chuha’s brother was shot and injured, and one of the officers also sustained injuries.
In another incident in Suam Sub-county, Bukwo District, police officers were attacked while trying to rescue a suspected thief from an angry mob. The group, reportedly led by the LC II chairperson, attempted to forcibly take the suspect from police custody with the intention of lynching him. A scuffle ensued, leaving one police officer and a resident injured.
Speaking to the press at Naguru Police Headquarters, police spokesperson Kituuma Rusoke condemned the continued attacks on officers. He cited a previous case where PC Chemongesi Suleiman, attached to Bisheshe Police under Ibanda CPS, was murdered by mourners while guarding the funeral of Lazarus Kahangire on April 6, 2025.
“I wonder how an LC II chairperson could lead a mob to take a suspect from police custody to be lynched, claiming to have ordered the arrest himself,” said Kituuma. He further questioned why some members of the public expect officers who defend themselves during such attacks to be arrested.
Rusoke emphasized that the police will not hesitate to arrest and prosecute anyone who obstructs law enforcement officers in the execution of their duties.
