In a notable display of integrity within the Uganda Police Force, two individuals were apprehended on April 14, 2024, for attempting to bribe an officer at the Arua Vuira Central Police Station (CPS).

The suspects, identified as Ajikia Annet, 28, and Nyakuta Brian, 22, both from Nyio Village in Arua District, are now facing charges of attempting to obstruct justice.

The incident unfolded when Annet and Nyakuta approached D/ASP Japhar Kalinaki, the Officer-in-Charge of the Criminal Investigation Division at Arua Vuira CPS, with an offer of two million Ugandan Shillings. Their objective was to secure the release of Innocent Onzima, a relative detained in connection with a brutal murder that occurred on December 17, 2023.

Onzima, alongside other clan members, is accused of murdering Alido Arijule, a family member. Following the murder, the group allegedly burned down the victim’s house and disposed of his body in a pit latrine, before fleeing to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). They returned to Uganda after learning about the transfer of the previous officer handling the case, D/ASP Moses Maloba.

The swift action by D/ASP Kalinaki in reporting the bribe attempt highlights the ongoing efforts within the Uganda Police Force to combat corruption and maintain integrity. The suspects, Annet and Nyakuta, are set to appear in court on April 16, 2024, where they will face charges related to their attempt to undermine the legal process.

The police force’s commitment to ethical conduct and refusal to succumb to bribery remind us of integrity’s crucial role in law enforcement. The public is encouraged to report any corruption they encounter, reinforcing the collaborative effort needed to maintain justice and trust in Uganda’s legal system.