The Kajjansi Chief Magistrates Court has remanded two police officers over multiple allegations of assault, harassment, and abuse of office in the Kajjansi and Entebbe areas. The officers, PC Katungi Alex and Assistant Inspector of Police (AIP) Hadali Keneth, are jointly facing charges of assault and conspiracy to commit atrocities.

PC Katungi, an officer attached to the Environmental Protection Police Unit (EPPU) under the Ministry of Water and Environment, stands accused of assaulting multiple individuals under the pretext of cracking down on illegal developments in wetlands. However, several victims claim the officer used excessive force and targeted people without due process.

According to court documents, Katungi is also under investigation for broader offenses, including illegal arrests, land grabbing, extortion, and harassment, particularly targeting investors and landowners in the areas of Kajjansi and Entebbe.

Witnesses allege that Katungi, while claiming to be enforcing environmental laws, engaged in corrupt practices, including threatening legal action against landowners and then extorting money to allow them to proceed with their developments. In some cases, victims reported being detained without proper charges or documentation.

In a twist of irony, Katungi is also being probed for personally authorizing or participating in illegal developments within protected wetland areas  the very crimes he claimed to be preventing.

AIP Hadali Keneth, his co-accused, has been charged with conspiracy, allegedly aiding and coordinating with Katungi in carrying out the unlawful activities.

The prosecution requested the continued detention of both officers to allow ongoing investigations into multiple complaints filed by residents and business owners.

The Kajjansi Chief Magistrate ruled in favor of the prosecution, remanding both officers until April 9, 2025.

The case has drawn public attention, with local leaders and civil society organizations calling for a comprehensive review of operations within the Environmental Protection Police Unit.

“This case highlights the urgent need for transparency and oversight within environmental enforcement units,” said Miriam Kabonesa, a legal officer with the Center for Justice and Accountability. “Officers entrusted to protect the environment must not become its exploiters.”

As the investigations proceed, communities in Kajjansi and Entebbe are watching closely, hopeful that this marks the beginning of accountability for alleged abuses that have long gone unchecked.