By Weswa Ronnie
KAMPALA
Two police officers attached to Katwe police station have been arrested following allegations of torturing to death a suspect identified as Lauben Muchunguzi, a boda-boda rider from Kibuli-Kampala.
The incident that took place on Wednesday, 20th March, 2024 has sparked outrage and calls for justice within the community.
Luke Owoyesigirye, Kampala Metropolitan deputy police spokesperson, provided details of the tragic events leading to Muchunguzi’s death.
Owoyesigirye says that Muchunguzi and his colleague Marvin Bishengera attempted to snatch a phone from a Congolese national, Jovan Tukye, in Kanakurya Zone on Kayemba road-Kibuli on March 12, 2024, around 8:00pm
A mob ensued, chasing the suspects, with Muchunguzi managing to escape while Bishengera was rescued by the police from the angry crowd. The motorcycle they were riding on was later reported by its owner, who was instructed by the police to produce Muchunguzi before reclaiming the motorcycle.
Reports suggest that a trap was set by the motorcycle owner and other residents, leading to Muchunguzi’s arrest.
However, after spending one night in police custody, Muchunguzi’s health deteriorated significantly, prompting the police to rush him to Mulago referral hospital, where he was declared dead upon arrival.
Owoyesigirye disclosed that family members and community leaders have identified certain police officers whom they accuse of torturing Muchunguzi during his detention.
“In some of the statements recorded, family members and area leaders are accusing our officers of having tortured Muchunguzi both on the way and at the police station,” Owoyesigirye stated adding that a death inquiry has been initiated, and two officers been arrested as part of the ongoing investigation.
Owoyesigirye emphasized the police’s condemnation of any acts of torture, stating, “If the allegations against these people are found to be true, they will face the full force of the law.”
