Rédaction Africa Links 24 with The Observer
Published on 2024-04-16 18:40:29
Eight police officers from Kira-Police Division in Kira municipality, Wakiso district, have been apprehended for the alleged theft of Shs 60 million in exhibit cash. The incident involved a total of Shs 192 million that was stolen from Shatrah Namata, an employee of a hardware shop in Lungujja. It was reported that only about Shs 160 million of the stolen money made its way to the police station.
The theft was uncovered when three suspects, who were traveling in a Toyota Noah with registration number UBN 360N, were intercepted at Naalya roundabout by a police patrol team that had been trailing them with the assistance of boda-boda riders. During the operation, two individuals were arrested, and one suspect who attempted to flee was shot and injured before being captured. A bag containing the stolen cash was recovered and taken to Kira-Division police as evidence.
Police spokesperson, Fred Enanga, highlighted that there were discrepancies in the amount of money reported by Namata and the actual amount recovered by the police. He mentioned that a portion of the money, around Shs 30 million, went missing during the process of counting and recording the exhibit at the police station. Enanga revealed that surveillance footage showed some officers mishandling the funds, with one officer suspected of stealing an additional Shs 30 million.
This incident is not an isolated case of police officers tampering with exhibit materials. In a similar occurrence in 2022, five officers from Katwe Police Division were arrested for setting an office ablaze in an attempt to destroy evidence.
The arrest and investigation of these officers underscore the importance of accountability and integrity within law enforcement agencies. Such misconduct not only undermines public trust but also compromises the handling of evidence and the administration of justice.
Efforts to address these issues include the implementation of stricter protocols for handling exhibits, enhanced supervision of officers, and the establishment of mechanisms for reporting and addressing misconduct within the police force. It is essential for law enforcement agencies to uphold professional standards and ethical behavior to ensure the fair and transparent delivery of justice to the community.
As this case unfolds, authorities will continue to investigate the matter and hold those responsible accountable for their actions. The cooperation of the public in reporting suspicious activities and supporting law enforcement efforts is crucial in maintaining the safety and security of communities.
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