Police Officer Shoots Truck Driver Dead Near Nakasero State Lodge

Summary:

• The Kampala Metropolitan Police are investigating the fatal shooting of truck driver Julius Ssemwaka by Officer Charles Bahati on Monday near Sezibwa Road. The officer fled the scene with his weapon, and a manhunt is underway. Witnesses reported a heated argument between the officer and the driver before the shooting. Police have confirmed that the officers were not on an official duty but appeared to be heading to a social event.

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The Kampala Metropolitan Police are currently investigating the fatal shooting of a truck driver by a Uganda Police officer on Monday afternoon near Sezibwa Road, close to Nakasero State Lodge.

According to the Uganda Police Force, the incident involved Officer 55915 PC Charles Bahati, who shot and killed Julius Ssemwaka, the driver of a truck with the registration number UAX 480C.

“Following the shooting, PC Bahati fled the scene with his firearm and is currently at large. Authorities have launched a manhunt to apprehend him. Investigations into the incident are underway, and further updates will be provided,” the police statement said.

Police spokesperson Rususoke Kituma urged the public to remain patient while the investigation continues. “A dedicated team has been formed to track down the officer, and once he is located, we will take swift action,” Kituma confirmed.

An eyewitness, Kasumba Kassim, a boda boda rider, described the events leading up to the shooting. He explained that Bahati, along with other officers, was riding in a police patrol vehicle when they instructed Ssemwaka to reverse his truck to clear the way. However, due to heavy traffic, the driver was unable to comply.

“The officer stepped out of the vehicle, ordered the driver to reverse, and a heated argument followed. The officer shouted at the driver, ‘Go back.’ In fear for my safety, I attempted to leave the area, anticipating gunfire. Moments later, I heard a shot, and the driver collapsed. The officers tried to intervene, but it was too late. After the shooting, the officer fled on a boda boda, taking the weapon with him,” Kasumba recalled.

Kasumba also noted that the officers were not part of any official convoy or escort, adding that it appeared they were in a hurry to attend a social event. “I noticed a woman in the vehicle holding a cake, suggesting they were heading to a function,” he said.