Kole, Uganda: A senior officer attached to the Criminal Investigations Directorate in Kole District has been arrested over allegations of attempted rape involving a 19-year-old student, in a case that has shaken the Uganda Police Force and raised fresh concerns about abuse of authority within security installations.
The suspect, Dickens Louis Ebong, who serves as Officer in Charge of CID in Kole, is accused of luring the victim to his residence inside Kole Police Barracks under the pretext of giving her a book before allegedly attempting to sexually assault her.
Confirming the incident, Police spokesperson Jimmy Patrick Okema said preliminary investigations indicate the suspect used deception to gain access to the victim.
“The suspect allegedly invited the victim to his residence within the police barracks, claiming he had a book to give her. It is further alleged that once inside, he locked the door and attempted to sexually assault her,” Okema said.
He added that the victim was later rescued after being discovered inside the room in distress, and that the suspect is now in custody as investigations continue.
The case was reported by the victim’s father, Bennie Olila, who alerted authorities after learning of the incident. His complaint prompted swift police action, leading to the arrest of the officer and the opening of a formal investigation.
“I was shocked when I got the information. I immediately reported the matter because I needed justice for my child,” Olila said in his statement to investigators.
Authorities confirmed that the victim underwent a medical examination at Aboke Health Centre IV, with findings already submitted to investigators as part of the evidence. A medical source said the examination followed standard procedures for handling sexual violence cases.
Police leadership has condemned the alleged conduct, describing it as a serious breach of professional standards.
“This is an isolated case that we strongly condemn. Any officer found abusing his or her office for personal gain or criminal intent will face the full force of the law,” a senior police official said.
Investigators say the suspect has been formally charged, although specific charges are yet to be publicly disclosed pending prosecutorial guidance. The inquiry is examining the sequence of events, the suspect’s conduct, and any possible prior complaints, alongside forensic and testimonial evidence.
The incident has sparked concern among residents in Kole, particularly because it allegedly occurred within police barracks—spaces traditionally considered secure.
“This raises serious questions about trust and safety when even police premises are allegedly involved in such incidents,” a local leader noted.
According to the Uganda Police Annual Crime Report 2025, cases of sexual violence remain a significant concern, with over 13,000 sex-related offences recorded nationwide, including defilement, rape, and attempted rape.
Authorities note that many of these crimes occur in environments where victims know the perpetrators, highlighting the persistent challenge of abuse of trust and authority.
SP Okema said the suspect is now in custody as the case file is prepared for court, with further updates expected once investigations are complete.
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