Owoyesigire Dismisses Torture Claims Against CID Commander Ntabu

Kampala Metropolitan Deputy Police Spokesperson Luke Owoyesigire has dismissed allegations of torture by Afande Joel Ntabu as false.

This comes after allegations that Ntabu, the Kampala Metropolitan CID Commander, assaulted anti-corruption protestors in custody.

On July 23, Police quelled mild anti-corruption protests in the heart of the city. The protestors, mainly youth, were attempting to march to Parliament to show their disappointment in the corruption levels in Uganda. However, over 100 were apprehended by Police and remanded to Luzira Prison.

Upon apprehension, the majority of the youth were held at Central Police Station, Kampala before arraignment at Buganda Road Court. With over 20 of them getting bail last week, social media has been awash with testimonies against Ntabu.

“This man right here tortured us at CPS. He [Joel Ntabu] kicked me in the stomach and I hit the walls. He slapped Kule Ronald Mbing and he slapped and kicked Aloikin Opoloje. As if that wasn’t enough, he almost broke Otieno George into pieces. He told us he’s the author of pain!! Dirty corp.” said Kobusingye Norah, one of the protestors.

However, Owoyesigire called these claims false and unfounded.

“We assure the public that their concerns have been acknowledged. The Police are committed to investigating these allegations thoroughly. However, it is important to clarify that investigations will not be conducted based on social media posts.” Owoyesigire said.

Owoyesigire advises protestors

Additionally, he advised the protestors to take the matter off social media and report to official channels.

“We urge those who feel aggrieved to formally report to the Professional Standards Unit and the CID at Kibuli for a comprehensive investigation. Unless formal complaints are made, any allegations on social media will be considered an attempt to malign the officer’s reputation, who was lawfully executing his mandate.” Owoyesigire added.

Owoyesigire also clarified Ntabu’s job description at CPS. He revealed that Ntabu mainly assigns and supervises case files during investigations. He also noted that the Police lobby where suspects were ushered is equipped with CCTV cameras.