Senior Reporter
Residents in Kabale Municipality are accusing officers at Kabale Central Police Station of engaging in extortion for access to Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) camera services.
According to reports, victims of aggravated robbery and other crimes, particularly those captured under or near CCTV cameras, allege that police personnel routinely demand bribes to provide footage and identify culprits.
Reuben Ainomugisha, a local journalist, recounted an incident where he was attacked by robbers near Kabale Secondary School. Ainomugisha claims that unidentified officers demanded Ugandan Shillings 400,000 from him to retrieve camera footage and identify the suspects. Additionally, he was severely assaulted, had his two phones confiscated, and lost 170,000 shillings in cash. Ainomugisha reported the incident to Kabale Central Police Station, where a case of aggravated robbery was registered under reference number SD REF 36/29/02/2024.
Kakuru Robert Byamugisha, Executive Director of Kick Corruption out of Uganda, expressed concerns that many residents doubt the functionality of CCTV cameras in town, viewing them as mere decorations. Byamugisha highlighted the widespread recognition of the issue of extortion at Kabale Police Station, emphasizing that essential services like these should be provided free of charge to assist Ugandans and combat criminality in the area.
Elly Maate, Kigezi Region Police spokesperson, stated his disappointment if the allegations are true. He stressed the need for the Crime Intelligence Department to investigate the matter thoroughly and, if proven, take appropriate action against the officers involved in soliciting money.
