Why Uganda Police Arrested More Than 60 NUP Foot Soldiers – Set To Arrest More

The Uganda Police Force has declared a sweeping crackdown on election-related violence following a rise in clashes, attacks on officers, and damage to property allegedly linked to supporters of the National Unity Platform (NUP) during campaign activities.

In a statement released on Friday, police said that while the presidential campaign trail has “largely remained peaceful,” a worrying pattern of provocation and aggression has emerged in several parts of the country.

The force expressed concern that “a few individuals have continuously provoked security officers and engaged in violent acts.” These acts, the statement added, include damaging police vehicles, assaulting officers, and blocking public roads — conduct described as “unacceptable and will have consequences.”

According to the police statement, several disturbing incidents have been recorded across multiple districts in recent weeks, highlighting a growing challenge for law enforcement during the campaign season.

In Busia District, suspects traveling in an NUP convoy allegedly assaulted a police officer, leading to a case being registered at Busia CPS under CRB 1038/2025. Meanwhile, on October 3 in Mayuge District, another officer was reportedly attacked and seriously injured during NUP campaign activities, with his phone stolen in the chaos.

A few days later, on October 8, a detective constable was assaulted during a rally at Bikoma Primary School in Kyankwanzi District. The violence did not stop there — in Kakumiro District, the windshield of a police vehicle was smashed in Kisita Town Council on October 21. Later that month, on October 28, officers escorting the NUP presidential convoy between Lira City and Alebtong District came under attack. Their vehicle tires were punctured, and property was stolen in the process.

The following day, on October 29, another incident was reported in Abim District where NUP bodyguards allegedly assaulted a man identified as Edibu Emmanuel, leaving him hospitalized. The statement also highlighted an attack on a journalist working with Tayari Television in Kiruhura District on November 5 — an episode that has sparked concern about the safety of media personnel covering political events.

Police further revealed that on November 7, several individuals were arrested in Mbarara District. Those detained reportedly have criminal records and are accused of assaulting officers, damaging property, and obstructing police duties. Authorities say these arrests are part of ongoing efforts to curb disorder and ensure safety during the tense election period.

“The Uganda Police Force remains steadfast in its commitment to safeguarding all candidates, but will not tolerate criminality or disorder,” the statement read. It urged political actors to “conduct themselves civilly, respect legal frameworks, and maintain peace throughout the campaign period.”

The force reiterated that its actions are not aimed at silencing political participation or targeting law-abiding citizens. Instead, enforcement efforts are focused on individuals “who, by choice, repeatedly confront officers and incite violence.”

As Uganda edges closer to the elections, the police have underscored their determination to maintain peace and order, calling for restraint and cooperation from all political groups. The message is clear — while peaceful campaigning is encouraged and protected, violence and provocation will be met with firm legal response.