The Uganda Police Force has taken note of a video circulating on social media in which Cpl. Mukolerwa Fatina raises concerns over the release on police bond of a suspect in a case of alleged domestic violence and theft of land documents registered under CRB 70/2024. The complaint was lodged by an estranged husband of the suspect.
Preliminary information indicates that Cpl. Mukolerwa Fatina arrested the suspect at her home in Bulamu, Kasangati. During and after the arrest, a confrontation reportedly occurred between the officer and the suspect.
DPC Kasangati was tasked to verify information that two children of the suspect had been left unattended at the locked premises following the arrest, one of whom is estimated to be seven years old. It was upon consideration of these circumstances and the need to safeguard the welfare of the children that the DPC authorised the release of the suspect on police bond, pending completion of inquiries.
Police Management has taken interest in the concerns raised by Cpl. Mukolerwa and will establish the full facts surrounding the arrest, the handling of the suspect, and the subsequent release on bond. The release of a suspect on police bond does not terminate investigations or amount to an acquittal. The suspect remains subject to police inquiries and will be required to report whenever called upon.
The Uganda Police Force further wishes to emphasise that officers who believe that professional standards, procedures or the law have been violated are encouraged to report such concerns through the established institutional mechanisms. The Force has the Professional Standards Unit and other command structures through which complaints, grievances and allegations of misconduct may be lodged and addressed fairly and professionally.
While every officer has a right to be heard, the use of informal communication spaces and social-media platforms to pursue internal grievances is improper and unprofessional. Police officers are expected to observe discipline, confidentiality, restraint and the established chain of command, particularly in matters that are still under investigation.
The Uganda Police Force remains committed to ensuring justice for all citizens, including its officers. All complaints and grievances will be handled fairly, impartially and through the established legal, disciplinary and administrative mechanisms, with due regard to the rights, welfare and dignity of every person involved.
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