Two police officers are behind bars following the death of a taxi driver who died shortly after being detained at Busembatya Police Station in Bugweri District, triggering protests and fresh questions over police conduct.
The incident occurred shortly after the suspect was detained on Thursday, escalating into a community protest that drew attention from rights advocates and local leaders.
The deceased, identified as Joel Gabantu, was a taxi driver and resident of Busembatya Town Council.
He was arrested on allegations of stealing an Infinix mobile phone worth Shs70,000 from a woman identified as Namukasa Prossy.
Gabantu died just hours after his detention under what police describe as “unclear circumstances.”
“Preliminary information indicates the deceased may have been assaulted before being placed in the cells. Officers on duty failed to report any incident during the night,” said SP Michael Kafayo, the Busoga East Police spokesperson.
In response, authorities arrested Sgt Kabona Moses and PC Okogha Muluha, both attached to the station, along with three civilians who were sharing a cell with Gabantu. All five suspects have been moved to Bugweri Central Police Station for questioning.
The incident sparked anger in the community, with residents staging street protests and accusing the police of torture and extrajudicial killings.
“The public has every right to be concerned,” SP Kafayo noted. “Once we have the autopsy and full internal report, we shall ensure the law takes its course.”
Gabantu’s body was taken to Mbale City Mortuary for a postmortem, which police say will be key to determining the cause of death and shaping the criminal investigation.
