Lira, Uganda | February 18, 2025 — The Uganda Human Rights Commission (UHRC) has awarded a total of Shs140 million in compensation to three victims of human rights violations in the Lango Sub-region.

The tribunal, chaired by UHRC Chairperson Hon. Mariam Wangadya alongside Commissioners Hon. Crispin Kaheru, Hon. Col. Steven Basaliza, and Hon. Lamex Omara Apitta, delivered its rulings on Monday at the Commission’s newly established Lira Regional Office.

In a strong rebuke, the panel condemned security forces for failing to uphold their constitutional obligations and issued stern warnings against future abuses. The commissioners reminded the UPDF and police of their duty to protect human rights, emphasizing that violations would not be tolerated under the Constitution.

One of the cases involved Ms Alango Katorin, 83, who was awarded Shs65 million after her son, Adyebo Francis, died in police custody in 2007. Adyebo had been remanded at Erute Prison on theft charges when the then-Lira District Police Commander, Otim Raymond, took him for questioning over an alleged murder.

His body was later found at Lira Hospital Mortuary with gunshot wounds. The tribunal described the actions of the police as “criminal, deliberate, and cruel,” calling on the Director of Criminal Investigations to pursue murder charges against Otim.

In another ruling, Ms Cissy Akello received Shs60 million after her husband, Patrick Olum, was tortured to death in 2008 at Amolatar Government Prison. Olum had been arrested for using an unauthorized fishing net when prison officers brutally assaulted him.

Witnesses testified that he was tied to a tree and kicked repeatedly until he died, after which his body was dumped in a wheelbarrow. The tribunal condemned the treatment as “dehumanizing,” emphasizing that such brutality violated fundamental human rights.

The third case involved Alake Michael, who was awarded Shs15 million after being tortured during a 2009 joint police-UPDF operation to recover illegal firearms. Soldiers struck him with sticks and a gun butt, causing severe head injuries. The tribunal strongly criticized the “cruel and degrading treatment,” reminding security forces that torture is unconstitutional and unacceptable.

Hon. Wangadya reiterated the duty of security agencies to respect human rights. Hon. Lamex Omara Apiita emphasized the sanctity of life, stating, “The right to life is paramount. Death is irreversible, and violations cannot be tolerated.”

Hon. Crispin Kaheru affirmed the Commission’s commitment to justice, stating that these rulings demonstrate its determination to address even historical cases and ensure accountability.