AGAGO, UGANDA — In a recent community meeting focused on service delivery in Agago district, Uganda, two police officers were taken into custody following allegations of reporting for duty while under the influence of alcohol.
The incident, which transpired during a public Baraza, has raised serious concerns regarding professional conduct within the local law enforcement.
Sgt. Christopher Onega, the officer-in-charge of the Kotomor police post, and Police Constable Oscar Okello were apprehended by James Nabinson Kidega, the Agago Resident District Commissioner (RDC), who was present at the community gathering.
The Baraza, designed to facilitate dialogue between residents, police, and other stakeholders, took an unexpected turn when the RDC observed the officers’ compromised state.
According to RDC Kidega, both officers displayed clear signs of intoxication, rendering them unfit for their responsibilities. Sgt. Onega was reportedly found without footwear and out of official uniform, while PC Okello exhibited unsteady gait and was also barefoot.
Expressing strong disapproval, RDC Kidega emphasized the critical importance of maintaining impeccable standards of professionalism and discipline within the police force, regardless of whether officers are on or off duty.
“This kind of conduct is unacceptable and erodes public trust in the police,” Kidega stated.
Mr. Kidega speaking…
Currently, the two officers are being held at Patongo Central police station. They are facing charges related to being drunk on duty and negligence of duty.
The case has been officially registered under CRB 29/03/04/2025.
