On the night of February 5, 2026, attackers killed two police officers along the Busota–Kisozo Road in Naibowa Village, Kamuli District. Authorities believe this was a deliberate criminal attack. The Kamuli police killings have sparked outrage and launched an urgent investigation.
The victims were Assistant Inspector of Police (AIP) Nambafu Peter and Election Special Polling Constable (ESPC) Bakali Mwanje, about 26 years old. Both served at Kiyunga Police Post under Kamuli Central Police Station. According to SSP Samson Lubega, spokesperson for Busoga North Regional Police, they left their post around 9 p.m. on a motorcycle. They were reportedly heading to AIP Nambafu’s home.
Around 11 p.m., someone reported two bodies on the roadside. Police responded quickly and secured the scene. They collected several key exhibits for the investigation. Preliminary findings show both officers suffered fatal head injuries from a violent assault. Investigators now treat this as a targeted criminal act.
The Uganda Police Force condemned the attack as a “cowardly act.” Officials also expressed deep condolences to the families, colleagues, and communities affected. SSP Lubega stressed that the force takes officer safety seriously. He promised they will do everything possible to find the perpetrators.
“We recognize the sacrifice our officers make in the line of duty,” Lubega said. “We assure the public we will pursue this case to its logical conclusion.” Investigators are following multiple leads and reviewing all evidence.
Police have also appealed to the public for help. They urge anyone with information—no matter how small—to come forward. They will keep all tips strictly confidential. Community cooperation is vital, especially in rural areas where witnesses may fear retaliation.
At the same time, officials are working to calm residents. They acknowledge the Kamuli police killings have increased anxiety about safety. Yet they insist law enforcement remains fully operational. They encourage people to keep supporting police efforts to maintain peace in Kamuli and across Busoga North.
This tragedy also highlights serious challenges in rural policing. Limited resources, difficult terrain, and rising violent crime leave officers vulnerable—especially when traveling off-duty or in small teams. Urban centers often get more security attention, but cases like this show the urgent need for better protection in remote areas.
Ultimately, the Kamuli police killings test Uganda’s commitment to justice and public safety. How fast and thoroughly investigators solve this case will show whether rural officers can serve without fear. It will also reveal whether communities can trust that violence against those who protect them will never go unpunished.
