Police in the Rwenzori West Region have dismissed as false allegations of an attempted kidnapping made by James Byamukama, an aspirant for Member of Parliament for Mwege South Constituency.
Byamukama had claimed that he narrowly escaped abduction by unknown individuals dressed in civilian clothing at a hotel in Fort Portal City, where he had booked accommodation.
However, police say investigations conducted into the matter found no evidence to support the alleged kidnapping.
According to the Rwenzori West Regional Police Spokesperson, SP Vincent Twesige, inquiries established that the vehicle which Byamukama claimed was trailing him belongs to Prime Financial Services.
“Following thorough inquiries, police established that the vehicle (commonly referred to as a drone) mentioned by Mr. Byamukama is registered to Prime Financial Services and was being driven by a staff member of the company who had also booked at the same hotel,” SP Twesige said.
He added that police found no indication of criminal intent or attempted abduction linked to the vehicle or its occupants.
“There is absolutely no evidence to support claims of an attempted kidnapping as alleged,” Twesige emphasized.
Police have since cautioned political actors against making unverified and alarmist claims, warning that such statements can unnecessarily cause fear and panic among the public, especially during the politically sensitive period.
“We strongly warn all political actors against engaging in dramatic political gimmicks that may create anxiety and insecurity among members of the public,” SP Twesige said.
