Kampala was thrown into shock and confusion after a police officerNo. 55915 PC Bahati Charles reportedly shot and killed a mini-truck driver Julius Ssemwaka during a traffic altercation on Kintu Road near the Sheraton Hotel. The incident, which occurred on today in the evening at around 4pm, has left witnesses and residents outraged.
Eyewitnesses claim the dispute began when the driver of the mini-truck Ssemwaka failed to yield to a police patrol truck attempting to overtake. Heated words reportedly ensued before one of the police officer disembarked from the patrol vehicle, drew his firearm, and allegedly fired a fatal shot at the driver.
In a bizarre turn of events, the officer reportedly fled the scene on a boda boda (motorcycle taxi), leaving behind a crowd of shocked onlookers and the lifeless body of the mini-truck driver. Passersby and witnesses gathered at the scene, expressing their disbelief and anger at the incident.
Efforts to reach Kampala Metropolitan Police spokesperson, SSP Patrick Onyango, for an official comment proved futile as repeated calls went unanswered. Meanwhile, the identity of the officer involved has been released and official statement is yet to be released by the police regarding the incident.
Civil rights groups and members of the public have called for a thorough investigation and immediate action to bring the officer to justice. “This is an abuse of power, and such actions cannot go unpunished,” said a concerned resident.
The incident has reignited conversations about police conduct and accountability in Uganda, with many questioning the use of excessive force in minor disputes. As investigations continue, the public awaits a clear explanation and decisive action from the authorities to address the tragic incident.
