UPDF soldiers raid Lubowa police station, beat up commanders, civilians

LUBOWA, Uganda — A violent clash erupted at Lubowa Police Station on Wednesday after armed UPDF soldiers from the Special Forces Command (SFC) allegedly invaded the premises, attacking police officers and civilians. At least five officers were injured, prompting an official investigation by the Uganda Police Force.

According to a report from the Kajjansi Police Division (Kampala Metropolitan South), the incident began around 2:00 PM when ASP Sunday Innocent, the station’s officer-in-charge, received a call from a man claiming to be Lt. Samson Amo of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF). The officer demanded the detention of eight individuals reportedly arrested in a Lubowa operation.

When ASP Sunday sought clarification on the arrests, Lt. Amo allegedly responded with verbal abuse. Shortly after, about 12 armed soldiers arrived in a military vehicle, surrounded the station, and held officers at gunpoint before physically assaulting them and civilians present.

Five police officers were confirmed injured, with their mobile phones reportedly stolen. The victims include ASP Sunday Innocent, D/IP Kisa Claire, Sgt. Kabaho, D/Sgt Njose, and D/C Tubwita. The number of injured civilians remains unclear, as many fled the scene.

Disturbingly, the eight suspects brought in by the SFC were found severely beaten, with six requiring urgent medical treatment at Doctor’s Hospital in Seguku. Authorities noted that Lt. Amo failed to provide a valid reason for the arrests or the legal basis for the operation.

In response, SP Namutosi Salama, the Division Police Commander, launched an investigation, filing charges of Aggravated Robbery and Attempted Murder against Lt. Amo and other unidentified soldiers.

The Kampala Metropolitan Police has since deployed additional officers to Lubowa Station, issued medical forms to victims, and initiated a full probe into the UPDF officers’ conduct.

The Uganda Police Force has vowed to hold those responsible accountable as investigations continue. The incident has sparked concerns over inter-agency tensions and alleged abuse of power by security personnel.