Lira, Uganda: Police have confirmed the arrest of 10 supporters of the National Unity Platform (NUP) accused of being behind a violent attack on a police vehicle that was escorting the presidential candidate, Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu (Bobi Wine), on his campaign trail from Lira City to Alebtong District.
The incident occurred on Tuesday, October 28, 2025, at around 1:00 p.m., in Obot A Village, near Obot Primary School, when a section of NUP supporters allegedly ambushed a police escort vehicle (UBK 380Q) and vandalized it.
According to ACP Kituuma Rusoke, the Uganda Police Spokesperson, the group punctured the tires, stole the car key chip sensor, and made off with two 20-litre jerricans of diesel, a bag of clothes, and a laptop belonging to one of the officers.
“They alleged that the vandalized vehicle contained a jammer disrupting their online network. However, since the campaigns began, they have been livestreaming freely. This was a fabricated excuse to create chaos,” ACP Rusoke said.
The 10 arrested suspects have been identified as: Ssembusi Precious Paul, Bukenya Ismail, Lokoro Liberty, Nakabuye Mastura, Waiswa Raston, Nasozi Hope, Saliman Kagwa, Kamulegya Regan, Katamba Stephen, and Lubega Alison.
They are currently being held at Lira City Central Police Station as investigations continue. Police also impounded a green Toyota Hiace drone van, registration number UA 933AU, believed to have been used during the attack.
A case of malicious damage to property and robbery has been opened, with the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) expected to guide the next steps.
Pattern of Violence on NUP Trail
Police said this latest incident adds to a growing pattern of aggressive behavior and assaults against officers deployed to provide security at campaign venues. “We shall not issue blanket condemnations because some participants are peaceful,” ACP Rusoke explained.
“But we will go after conflict entrepreneurs who have turned aggression and confrontation with security forces into a habit.”
Earlier incidents reported across the country include:
Mayuge District (Oct 3, 2025): A police officer was beaten and his phone stolen by NUP bouncers during a rally.
Kyankwanzi District (Oct 8, 2025): A detective constable was attacked by supporters at Bikoma Primary School; one NCO was punched by a crowd member who later escaped.
Kakumiro District (Oct 21, 2025): Bobi Wine allegedly deviated from an agreed route in Kisiita Town Council, damaging police pickup UP 7694 during a standoff.
Busia District: Another officer was assaulted during a campaign event; case filed under CRB 1038/2025.
Police reiterated that law enforcement remains committed to ensuring security for all candidates but warned that hooliganism and lawlessness will not be tolerated. “Candidates must stick to agreed campaign routes and avoid holding rallies on roadsides or in trading centres,” ACP Rusoke said. “The law will apply equally to everyone.”
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