Abbas Byakagaba has officially assumed office as the Inspector General of Police (IGP) of Uganda.

The handover ceremony took place at the Police headquarters in Naguru, Kampala, and was overseen by the Minister of Internal Affairs, Maj. Gen. Kahinda Otafiire.

During the same event, Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIGP) James Ochaya was appointed as the Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIGP), succeeding Maj. Gen. Geoffrey Katsigazi.

Byakagaba, who replaces Martin Okoth Ochola, had previously served as the Director of Counter-Terrorism and retired after his contract expired. His career is notable for his expertise in counter-terrorism, having received specialized training in the United States. His retirement occurred amidst a wider departure of senior police officials whose contracts were not renewed.

Martin Okoth Ochola retired from the Police Force in March this year. He had served as IGP since 2018 when he replaced Gen Kale Kayihura.

His tenure saw significant restructuring within the Uganda Police Force.

Ochola’s leadership was characterized by a reduction in the number of police directorates and an emphasis on merging specialized units.

Despite these efforts, Ochola’s tenure was also marked by challenges, including the increasing deployment of military officers to senior police positions, which sometimes led to tensions within the force​.

Abbas Byakagaba assumes office as the Inspector General of Police amidst an increased crime rate, especially in Kampala.

Concerns about the increased crime rate have swept through social media as victims share heart-wrenching testimonies.

In some cases, the police itself has shared footage of people being violently robbed.