The Inspector General of Police, Martin Okoth Ochola has condemned the “senseless†act of violent attack against police officers, manning the traffic checkpoint at Kiwumpa village, Kiwumpa parish, Luwero sub county in Luwero district.
The condemnation came shortly after a group of assailants armed with machetes emerged from both sides of the checkpoint in a coordinated manner, and attacked the two field force officers, who were armed and providing security to 4 other traffic officers, at the checkpoint.
Ina statement, Fred Enanga, police spokesperson said assailants hacked Josephat Twinamatsiko on the head and face. His colleague Busingye Ronald was cut at the back. Both their guns were robbed immediately.
“The assailants proceeded and set fire, using petrol, on a parked lorry Fuso box body which got a mechanical problem, on the 24/07/2022 at around 3pm and was undergoing repairs. And thereafter, escaped from the scene and jumped into a waiting getaway vehicle, around Kiwumpa Church of Uganda primary school and fled the area, “he said.
Ochola extended his deepest condolences to the family, friends, relatives and workmates of the late and further wished a quick recovery to Twinamatsiko who has been transferred to Kampala from Luwero hospital for better treatment.
“The tragic incident is a stark reminder of the hazards police officers face, in their efforts to protect the public and keep citizens safe. We do honor PC Busingye Ronald for his ultimate sacrifice while serving the community in Luwero and the country at large, “said Enanga.
At this stage, Enanga said the motivation of the violent attack and murder is not yet established, although it appears they targeted guns for robbery.
He stated that the other traffic officers, who were not armed were not attacked, assuring the public that the force has reinforced its teams in Luwero to help identify and apprehend the suspects involved in the brutal attack.