Police in Mbarara have arrested a motorcyclist seen in a viral social media video knocking down a police officer during a presidential campaign event.
The suspect, Richard Agumaniiwe, 27, a resident of Katojo Cell in Katojo Ward, Mbarara City South Division, is now in custody on allegations of attempted murder following the assault on SP Kennedy Ocaya, the Officer in Charge of Ruti–Mbarara City South Division.
According to police, a second motorcyclist captured in the same footage arrived at the scene moments after the collision and has since been identified as an uninvolved passer-by who stopped to observe the commotion. He did not take part in the attack but appeared in the video as onlookers gathered around the injured officer and the suspect.
Rwizi Region Police spokesperson Samson Kasasira confirmed the arrest, noting that the incident occurred on December 1, 2025, at around 4:00 pm at the Kikona Ruti Town Road junction along the Mbarara–Kabale Road.
“Agumaniiwe knocked Ocaya while on lawful duty during the campaign trail of the President of the Republic of Uganda and the presidential flag bearer of the NRM party in Mbarara on Monday,” Kasasira said.
Police explained that officers were clearing the road ahead of the presidential convoy travelling from Rwampara District to Mbarara City for the final campaign rally of the day.
“The suspect, riding motorcycle registration number UAC 177Z Yamaha, was signalled to get off the road but kept advancing at high speed and intentionally knocked the officer, leaving him with injuries,” he stated.
SP Ocaya was rushed to a nearby health facility for first aid and is reported to be in stable condition.
Kasasira added that the suspect appeared intoxicated at the time of arrest and was immediately subjected to a breathalyzer test.
Police say investigations are ongoing, and the outcome of the breathalyzer test will significantly determine the final charges preferred against Agumaniiwe.
