The Uganda Police Force has intensified efforts to restore calm and rebuild trust in Ibanda District following the tragic mob killing of Police Constable (PC) Suleiman Chemonges.
The officer was murdered while on duty during the burial of Lazarus Kahangire, an inmate who died in custody at Nyabuhikwe Government Prison.
In a decisive move to address the rising community tensions, the Chief Political Commissioner of Police, AIGP Ubaldo Bamunoba, convened a high-level meeting with the District Security Committee, district leaders, and Police officers.
The meeting aimed to reflect on the incident, identify underlying causes of unrest, and explore strategies to improve police-community relations.
AIGP Bamunoba also visited the scene of the incident in Bisheshe, Muziza Central Ward, Kyembogo LC I, where he met with local leaders and community members to assess the situation and gather firsthand insights.
Bamunoba revealed on his X page that he emphasized to the locals the need to address the root causes of mob justice and bridge the gap between law enforcement and the community.
“The community has been mobilized for a sensitization program aimed at reducing fear and promoting peace. The program focused on the effects of mob justice and the importance of community policing,” he said.
He further highlighted that the Police have rolled out a strengthened community policing initiative tailored to the unique needs of the Ibanda community.
“We have strengthened the community policing approach in Ibanda to restore trust and ensure public safety as part of a broader initiative to improve police-community relations and address security concerns in the district,” he added.
The sensitization campaign is expected to play a vital role in curbing acts of mob justice, which have recently escalated in the area, fueled by community frustration and mistrust.
The late PC Suleiman Chemonges, 28, was attached to Bisheshe Police Station in Ibanda Municipality.
His death sent shockwaves throughout the district, leading to the arrest of over 20 residents and sparking widespread tension and fear within the community.
District leaders welcomed the Police initiative and pledged to work hand-in-hand with security agencies to ensure such incidents do not recur.
As part of the ongoing campaign, more engagements are expected at the grassroots level, targeting youth, local councils, and other community stakeholders.
The Uganda Police Force continues to urge the public to refrain from taking the law into their own hands and to report grievances through appropriate legal channels.
