What we know so far on police officer who shot teenager dead in Kamuli

Kamuli, (UG):- As investigations into the police officer who fatally shot a teenager identified as Kawongolo Idrisa in Kamuli District, new details have emerged regarding the circumstances that led to the tragic incident.

Details obtained by DailyExpress indicate that on the fateful day, the officer, identified as Sgt Etapu Jimmy, had gone to arrest a suspect of assault identified as Diliisa Badhaza when a scuffle ensued.

“In the process of effecting the arrest, the suspect made an alarm, which attracted other family members, owing to the fact that he comes from a large family. They obstructed the arrest, and assaulted the police officer, on top of attempting to grab the gun,” said Busoga North Police Spokesperson, Mr Michael Kasadha in an update on Monday afternoon.

“The situation prompted the officer to discharge two bullets in self-defence, where a stray bullet ended up injuring Kawongolo, one of the brothers of the suspect. He was later pronounced dead upon reaching Kamuli General Hospital where he had been rushed for medical attention,” he added.

Kasadha clarified that the shooting incident occurred at Batalage II zone Balawoli Town Council in kamuli district. 

He added that Sgt. Etapu sustained injuries consistent with an assault during the confrontation and is currently receiving medical treatment, while relatives have taken the body for burial and investigations are still ongoing.

Context of Similar Incidents in Kamuli

These incidents highlight ongoing tensions between law enforcement and communities in the region, underscoring the need for improved engagement and conflict resolution strategies.

This event is part of a series of confrontations in Kamuli District involving law enforcement and civilians. In November 2022, Police Constable Isaac Sisye was arrested after fatally shooting 28-year-old Moses Kisige during an arrest operation in Kiduna-Luganda village. Kisige allegedly threatened the officer with a machete, prompting the shooting.

Earlier, in September 2021, residents of Kadungu A village lynched Officer-in-Charge Francis Kasolo after he allegedly shot and killed a local resident, Yosam Namwindo. The incident escalated when Kasolo intervened in a community dispute involving traditional rituals.