Ezrah Kashumbusha.
KAMPALA, January 18, 2024 | The Deputy Inspector General of Government (IGG), Patricia Achan, has called for expedited investigations into allegations of abuse of office by Bogere Jackson, the District Police Commander (DPC) of Hoima Rural Police Station. The accusations stem from a night operation where it is claimed that Bogere invaded seven villages in Hoima, subjecting families to harrowing experiences.
According to a statement, Bogere Jackson allegedly invaded homes at night, forcibly tied up residents, and, shockingly, orchestrated the rape of women by a gang. Subsequently, all residents were purportedly evicted from their land. The affected women bravely reported the distressing incident at Hoima Rural Police Station (Kitoba), where Bogere Jackson serves as the DPC. The case was registered as HMD GEFO03/2023.
Deputy IGG Patricia Achan expressed deep concern over the reported events and emphasized the urgency of a thorough investigation. Disturbingly, when victims attempted to follow up on the matter, the DPC allegedly resorted to threats of arrest and prevented them from making further appearances at the police station.
In response to the gravity of the allegations, lawyers representing the victims initiated a private prosecution, filing Criminal Case No. 897 of 2023. The charges include the offense of violating a non-derogable right – freedom from torture, cruel, inhumane, and degrading treatment in direct contravention of Section 11(5) of the Human Rights Act of 2019, as stated by Achan.
During the court proceedings, the DPC, with the alleged assistance of co-accused Kiza Nathan Byarugonjo and Oromo Luzira, reportedly kidnapped a crucial witness, Kayongo David, on December 19, 2023, from the premises of Hoima Magistrate Court. Shockingly, David is said to be currently unlawfully detained in Hoima Rural Police Station.
The unfolding events have ignited public concern and calls for justice. The affected communities, reeling from the alleged atrocities, await the outcome of the investigations and legal proceedings with bated breath.
