Colonel Peter Oscar Ajoket, the military assistant to Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja, has been apprehended and detained on accusations of assaulting a police officer. The incident occurred following a traffic accident in which Colonel Ajoket was involved. He is currently held at Kawempe Police Station after the altercation that took place last Saturday.
The incident unfolded when Colonel Ajoket was reportedly driving a Toyota Hilux (registration number UG 0859Z) and collided with another civilian vehicle, a Toyota Kluger (registration number UBB 430X). Police Constable Stanley Masembe was dispatched to the scene to investigate the accident. Accounts suggest that upon arrival, PC Masembe attempted to prevent Colonel Ajoket from leaving the scene while the investigation took place. This action allegedly led to a confrontation.
It is alleged that Colonel Ajoket drew his pistol and pointed it at PC Masembe before physically assaulting him. Additional police personnel were dispatched to the scene, and they were able to de-escalate the situation and arrest Colonel Ajoket.
While the police investigation is ongoing, sources suggest that the senior military officer is being held on charges related to assaulting a police officer and a traffic offense of driving under the influence of alcohol. The case has garnered attention due to the involvement of a high-ranking military official.
The Kampala Metropolitan Police spokesperson, Patrick Onyango, declined to comment on the specifics of the case but mentioned that it had been elevated to police headquarters given the involvement of a senior military officer. Fred Enanga, the police spokesman, indicated that he was awaiting a report from the director of traffic and road safety.
Colonel Ajoket is attached to the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM), and OPM spokesman Charles Odongtho confirmed this fact. However, he stated that he needed to verify the incident before providing a comprehensive statement.
This incident highlights the complexities that can arise when law enforcement and military personnel are involved in altercations. The case is under investigation, and the outcome will shed light on the consequences faced by individuals in positions of authority when alleged misconduct occurs.