Uganda Police Force Issues Warning To Bar Owners Regarding Alcohol Refueled Violet Crimes

The UPF has issued a stern warning to bar owners nationwide, urging them to implement stricter safety measures following a surge in violent incidents, including stabbings, brawls, and hospitalizations resulting from drunken fights, assaults, and disputes over women.

Notably, on December 13, 2023, at around 1 am, at Apex Bar in Lyantonde, Corporal Amanya Kenneth, also known as Rwamulago, from the Revenue Enforcement unit, was attacked and fatally strangled by an individual named Akim.

The suspect, motivated by a dispute over CPL Amanya’s girlfriend, was apprehended alongside the bar’s cashier, Kyomugisha Immaculate, and Joshua, and is currently detained at Lyantonde CPS.

In another incident on the same date around 10 pm, a couple, Opio Michael and Nyaoro Monica, had a dispute at a drinking establishment. The disagreement escalated, leading to Monica stabbing her husband in the neck with a knife. The victim succumbed to his injuries, and the suspect was arrested and charged with murder.

Additionally, the police in Luuka district have apprehended three suspects involved in the murder of Kiribaki Muhammad. The victim was tortured to death at Makalibisho Bar, and his body was later dumped near his village. The suspects, Nabongho Eriakest, a 30 year old cashier, Swaga Steven aged 56, and Mukhoda Jannet, a 22 year old, hairdresser are in custody.

These incidents highlight the lack of adequate safeguards by bar proprietors and managers, contributing to excessive alcohol consumption, drug use, and associated dangerous behaviors. Complaints include poor stewardship, inadequate bouncers, fights over women, football-related violence, and crimes fueled by alcohol and drugs. The UPF emphasizes its commitment to addressing bar-related crimes, and proprietors who fail to implement proper safety measures may face legal consequences.

Territorial commanders are compiling a catalog of incidents at bars to recommend closures or the revocation of operating licenses. Bar owners are urged to employ qualified stewards, staff, and security, establish a reporting system for incidents, provide training on handling violent or intoxicated customers, and consider implementing CCTV cameras and medical rooms for first aid.”