Kamonkoli Police accused of failing to protect residents
Residents of Nyanza North in Budaka District took to the streets on Tuesday morning, demanding the closure of Kamonkoli Police Station.
The protest was sparked by the tragic death of Yowabu Sebakaki, 52, who allegedly died after police officers failed to assist him.
The incident began late Monday night when Sebakaki was attacked by unidentified assailants while returning home from a drinking spot.
Severely injured and bleeding from a head wound, he sought help at Kamonkoli Police Station.
However, according to reports, the officer on duty refused to document his case or offer assistance, instead advising him to seek medical attention.
Hours later, Sebakaki’s lifeless body was found near Uganda Clays Company, close to his home.
His death, now recorded as a murder under case number CRB 88/2024, has outraged the community.
Residents accuse the police of gross negligence and corruption, alleging that this is the second death under similar circumstances within a month.
“Sebakaki came to the police station seriously injured, but the officers turned him away, leading to his death. What’s the point of having police if they don’t help?” an angry resident questioned.
“This is the second person to die under similar circumstances in just a month. The police seem useless. Either shut down the station or replace the OC,” another resident demanded.
“Apart from neglect, the OC hasn’t taken responsibility to provide security to the community,” one woman recalled, adding that previous reports of theft were ignored by the police.
In response, Bukedi North Police Acting PRO Samuel Samewo denied the allegations, stating that the officer advised Sebakaki to seek medical help due to his excessive bleeding.
To address the rising tensions, the Regional Police Commander ordered the transfer of the Officer-in-Charge of Kamonkoli Police Station to the Regional Headquarters for further investigation.
An inquiry into Sebakaki’s death has been launched, with his body sent to Mbale City Mortuary for a postmortem.
This incident has highlighted ongoing issues of inefficiency and corruption within local law enforcement, raising broader concerns about policing in rural Uganda, where limited resources and accountability erode public trust.
