KABALE: Residents in Kabale Municipality are leveling accusations against officers at Kabale Central Police Station, alleging extortion for access to Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) camera services.
They claim that victims of aggravated robbery and other crimes, particularly those captured under or near CCTV cameras, are routinely solicited for bribes by police personnel in order to obtain footage and identify culprits.
Reuben Ainomugisha, a journalist based in Kabale, recounted an incident last Wednesday night when he was attacked by robbers near Kabale Secondary School while heading home. Ainomugisha alleges that unidentified officers demanded Ugandan Shillings 400,000 from him to retrieve camera footage and identify the suspects. Ainomugisha was assaulted severely, his two phones got confiscated, and his money totaling 170,000 shillings got stolen. He reported the incident to Kabale Central Police Station, and a case of aggravated robbery was registered under reference number SD REF 36/29/02/2024.
CUE IN REUBEN… ON THE INCIDENT… RR/ENG//
Kakuru Robert Byamugisha, Executive Director of Kick Corruption out of Uganda, voiced concerns that many residents view CCTV cameras in town as mere decorations, doubting whether they are functional. Byamugisha asserted that the extortion of money at Kabale Police Station is a real issue, widely recognized by the public. He stressed that such essential services should be provided without cost to assist Ugandans and combat criminality in the area.
CUE IN KAKURU… ON EXTORTION… RR/ENG//
Elly Maate, Kigezi Region Police spokesperson, expressed disappointment if the allegations are true. He emphasized that the Crime Intelligence Department should investigate the matter, and if proven, appropriate action should be taken against the officers involved in soliciting money.
CUE IN MAATE… ON THE MATTER… RR/ENG//
