The family of Sula Sizoomu, a former police officer who served as a bodyguard for opposition leader Bobi Wine, has called on authorities to clarify his detention and release him immediately.

Sizoomu was among 16 officers from the Very Important Persons Protection Unit (VIPPU) assigned to protect each of the eight presidential candidates during the lead-up to the January 15 elections.

The officers had been tasked with ensuring the safety of candidates, including Mr Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, alias Bobi Wine, throughout the campaign.

In the weeks following the elections, the officers were summoned for questioning over alleged disobedience of lawful orders and other breaches, according to sources familiar with the matter. The investigation has resulted in serious consequences for the group:two officers remain in detention and five officers were released on police bond.

Family members say Sizoomu’s detention has left them anxious and worried for his safety. They insist that he and his colleagues were simply performing their duties and had no intent of violating any orders.

Legal analysts have raised concerns about the process, emphasizing that security personnel assigned to political figures are entitled to clear charges and proper judicial procedures. They note that the ongoing detention of Sizoomu may raise questions about due process and the treatment of officers who serve high-profile roles.

Efforts to obtain comment from police authorities regarding the exact charges and the status of the investigation have so far been unsuccessful.

Observers say the case underscores the heightened tensions surrounding the recent election period and highlight the need for transparency and fairness in disciplinary actions affecting security officers assigned to political duties.