Tension in Uganda: Soldiers Storm Police Station, Beat Officers and Loot Equipment

A shocking security incident has shaken Uganda’s Wakiso District after soldiers from the country’s elite military unit stormed the Lubowa Police Station, assaulted officers on duty, and made off with government-issued equipment.

The incident unfolded on the afternoon of April 30, 2025, when Lt. Samson Amo allegedly called the Officer-in-Charge of the station, ASP Sunday Innocent, requesting space to detain several individuals he and his team had apprehended. When ASP Sunday asked for details about the alleged crimes, Lt. Amo reportedly responded with insults.

Shortly afterward, Lt. Amo, accompanied by Private Emmanuel Opio and 12 other soldiers in a military vehicle, arrived at the police station. Upon arrival, they reportedly pointed guns at everyone present and began beating the police officers, including their commander, as well as civilians who were at the station for services.

Security reports indicate that five officers sustained serious injuries, and several mobile phones and other official tools were stolen by the soldiers during the attack.

Eyewitnesses say the soldiers fled the scene only after members of the public rushed in to intervene.

Col. Chris Magezi, the acting spokesperson for the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), acknowledged the incident and said a joint investigation between the police and military had been launched to determine the cause of the violent altercation.

“This could be a result of a breakdown in coordination between the forces, but we are working quickly to establish the facts,” said Col. Magezi.

The attack has ignited debate on Ugandan social media, with many citizens expressing concern over the safety of civilians if such violent clashes can occur between security agencies themselves.

J. christian IHIRWE