Kampala, Uganda: Retired Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Sam Omala, renowned for his prominent role in quelling Dr Kizza Besigye’s 2011 Walk-to-Work protests, has passed away after a prolonged battle with cancer.
Omala, 65, was pronounced dead by Arrow Security Systems Ltd, where he served as Director of Operations and Deputy CEO, following his retirement from active police duties. He died at Mulago National Referral Hospital this morning.
“Arrow Security Systems Ltd., with deep sorrow, announce the death of our Director Operations and Deputy CEO, SAM OMALLA (RIP), and retired at the rank of Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP). He has just passed on in Mulago Hospital at 7 am after a long struggle with cancer,” Capt. Mike Mukula, the CEO and founder of the security company, posted via his socials on Monday morning.
“We wish to extend our deepest condolences to the family and friends, and especially the IGP
and the Uganda Police,…funeral arrangements will be announced later.”
ACP Omala, who also served as Kampala Metropolitan Police Commander during his time in the force, was widely known for his tough stance during the 2011 “Walk to Work” protests, where he famously clashed with opposition leader Dr. Kizza Besigye.
In his later years, however, Omala expressed regret over some of his actions during his active service and publicly apologized to those he may have wronged
A Career Marked by Firmness, Controversy
ACP Omala rose through the ranks of the Uganda Police Force, eventually serving as the Kampala Field Force Commander. He became a household name during the 2011 Walk-to-Work protests, where his stringent enforcement tactics against demonstrators led by opposition figure Dr. Kizza Besigye drew both commendation and criticism.
In 2023, after retiring from active police service, Omala transitioned to the private sector, taking up the role of Deputy CEO in charge of operations at Arrow Security Systems Limited. His appointment was seen as leveraging his extensive experience in security operations to bolster private security services.
In recent months, Omala’s health deteriorated due to cancer, compounded by kidney complications. He had been bedridden and under medical care at Mulago Hospital, where he eventually succumbed to his illnesses.
Omala’s passing marks the end of a significant chapter in Uganda’s law enforcement history, reflecting a career that left a lasting impact on the nation’s approach to public order and security.
For more insights into ACP Sam Omala’s life and career, you can watch this New Vision TV report. below.
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