Former DPC Ebwang who changed into woman wanted over police desertion

Kampala, (UG):- The Uganda Police Force has issued an international red alert through Interpol, seeking the arrest of its former officer, SP Samuel Ebwang, on charges of desertion.

SP Ebwang, who previously served as the District Police Commander (DPC) in Wandegeya, Nsangi, and Buyende before disappearing without a trace is believed to be residing in Austria currently, married to a fellow man.

The former DPC had photos believed to be of his, take social media by storm early this month fueling public discourse, as he appeared dressed in female attire and posing in a feminine manner.

In his address to the media on Monday, Police Spokesperson ACP Michael Rusoke Kituuma confirmed the hunt for the fugitive officer, saying; “It’s true Ebwang was our officer and he deserted. We are actively looking for him.”

“With certainty, I can confirm that he deserted. He did not submit his resignation letter or formally apply to leave the Force. He is a deserter,” Kituuma stressed.

“When he was last here, he was a male. There are allegations now that he was converted into a female. Until we arrest him on allegations of desertion and establish the gender, we cannot confirm those claims,” the police spokesman added.

The hunt for Ebwang takes on a complex dimension in light of Uganda’s strict anti-homosexuality law, raising questions about whether Austria will comply with an Interpol extradition request.

Before fleeing Uganda, Ebwang reportedly abandoned his wife and three children and is said to have initially travelled to Australia before settling in Austria. He is reported to be currently married to a man, a factor that may influence any legal decision on his return.

Background and Investigation

Previously known as Samuel Abwang, Ebwang was a controversial figure in the police force even before his desertion. He served as the DPC in Koboko and was known for his lavish lifestyle, which often raised questions among his colleagues.

Unlike other officers who stayed in standard police housing, Ebwang chose to reside in a hotel, an unusual decision for someone in his position.

People who knew him revealed how Ebwang would frequently travel to Kampala, attend social events and seemingly live beyond the means of a typical police officer earning approximately Shs 800,000 per month. The source of his financial resources remained a mystery.

Adding to the controversy, a report surfaced alleging that Ebwang attempted to sexually assault a male acquaintance after sharing a room at the Grand Imperial Hotel in Kampala. The incident, though not officially confirmed by police, fueled speculations surrounding his lifestyle and personal struggles.

Concerns about his conduct intensified after he was reportedly held at Makindye Military Barracks in Kampala, though no formal charges were filed against him. It was not clear whether the detention at the military facility was related to same-sex practice allegations or something else.

Following his release, he managed to flee Uganda and eventually sought refuge abroad. While Ebwang was initially thought to have relocated to Canada, he is said to be residing in Austria, where he has reportedly embraced a new identity and lifestyle.

Police remain determined to bring him to justice, but whether international law enforcement agencies will cooperate in his extradition remains uncertain. Authorities continue to monitor the situation as legal and diplomatic efforts unfold.